Guwahati, Assam – The city of Guwahati has been grappling with severe waterlogging after continuous rainfall lashed several parts of the city since Monday night. Persistent downpours have caused significant flooding in major residential and commercial areas, leading to traffic jams, disrupted public transportation, and hardships for daily commuters.
Localities such as Chandmari, Zoo Road, GS Road, and Six Mile witnessed knee-deep water accumulation early Tuesday morning. Several other areas including Bharalumukh, Maligaon, and Dispur also reported similar situations, making it difficult for residents to step out of their homes.
Traffic movement on major arterial roads slowed to a crawl, with vehicles stranded in long queues during peak hours. Many commuters expressed frustration over the lack of preparedness in handling such weather conditions. "Every year during monsoon, we face the same problem. The authorities promise improvements but little changes on the ground," said Ranjita Das, a resident of Chandmari.
Officials from the Guwahati Municipal Corporation (GMC) stated that emergency teams have been deployed to manage the situation. Pumps have been installed in low-lying areas to clear the accumulated water. "We are working round the clock to tackle the waterlogging. Our teams are clearing clogged drains and ensuring that the water recedes as quickly as possible," said a senior GMC official.
Despite these efforts, residents have criticized the city's drainage infrastructure, highlighting the need for long-term solutions rather than temporary measures. Urban planners have also pointed out that rapid urbanization without adequate drainage planning has made Guwahati increasingly vulnerable to such flooding incidents.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecasted more rain over the next 48 hours. Authorities have advised citizens to remain indoors unless absolutely necessary and avoid waterlogged zones. Emergency helplines have been activated, and citizens have been asked to report any major blockages or accidents.
In addition to traffic woes, the rainfall has also affected daily life in other ways. Several schools announced holiday closures, and some businesses allowed employees to work from home to avoid unnecessary travel risks. Local vendors and shopkeepers in low-lying areas reported significant losses as their shops were inundated.
Environmentalists have called for immediate action to restore natural drainage channels, clear encroachments on wetlands, and implement sustainable urban planning policies. "We cannot afford to ignore nature’s warnings. Guwahati needs a complete drainage overhaul and serious flood management planning," said Dr. Manjit Deka, a local environmental activist.
As the rain continues, residents are hoping for swift action from the administration to bring the situation under control and prevent further inconvenience. Meanwhile, officials have reassured the public that all necessary measures are being taken to minimize the impact and restore normalcy at the earliest.
