Guwahati: ‘Garbage dumping in drains’ worsens waterlogging in city

STAFF REPORTER

GUWAHATI: Rampant garbage dumping in the narrow lanes of Silpukhuri has emerged as a major cause behind the worsening drainage issues in lower areas of the locality. While the government and municipality often bear the brunt of public criticism, many residents now admit that citizens themselves are equally responsible for the mess.

The root of the problem lies in the careless disposal of garbage—especially in lanes too narrow for Guwahati Municipal Corporation (GMC) vans to enter. With no proper infrastructure or large public bins available, several residents resort to dumping waste directly into drains, choking the city’s already fragile drainage system.

“What are drains for? We throw garbage thinking no one will notice. And when water overflows and the streets flood, we blame the government,” a frustrated citizen remarked, pointing to the very drains where trash was visibly clogging the flow of water. “It is in our hands to keep the city clean. Blaming the government every time doesn’t help. Shame on us,” the person added.

Despite such acts, some residents insist they are doing their part. Pradip Sharma, a local from Silpukhuri, said, “We are not facing issues with the GMC collection system. They may not come regularly, but we pack our garbage and keep it until they arrive. We don’t throw it in the drains.” Others, however, pointed out systemic gaps. Gargee Saikia observed, “Villages in Assam are clean because they don’t wait for municipalities to clean up. In cities like Guwahati, people have developed a dependency on municipal bodies. No one wants to take individual responsibility.”

Rinku Boruah highlighted another critical issue: the absence of public dustbins. “All the big bins were removed due to flyover constructions. There aren’t any in the bylanes either. People pay taxes expecting daily door-to-door collection, but the vans show up once every five or six days. What are we supposed to do—set up garbage units in our backyard?” she said. Residents agree that unless the garbage collection system is streamlined and larger bins are placed at strategic points, the cycle of blocked drains and urban flooding will continue. With the monsoon approaching, the need for immediate action—by both authorities and citizens—has never been more urgent.

 Also Read: Guwahati Smart City Project: Garbage Dumping near ESZ Proves Costly

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