Guwahati: IHM campus demolished as government accelerates city flood control project

Staff reporter

Guwahati: In a step toward combating Guwahati’s chronic urban flooding, the Assam Housing and Urban Affairs Department on Monday launched a major eviction and demolition drive, beginning with the campus of the Institute of Hotel Management (IHM), Silsakoo. The operation, led by Minister Jayanta Mallabaruah, marks a key milestone in the development of the city’s ambitious 800-bigha reservoir project.

The centrally-run IHM, spread over 15 bighas, became the latest institutional structure to be cleared, following earlier evictions of the Omeo Kumar Das Institute of Social Change and Development (OKDISCD) and the Institute of Cooperative Management (ICM).

“This is a difficult yet necessary decision,” said Minister Mallabaruah while addressing the media from the site. “While IHM has played an important academic role, Guwahati’s vulnerability to devastating floods compels us to take firm action for the city’s long-term safety.”

As part of the transition plan, temporary academic facilities for IHM will be arranged at the Industry Building in Christian Basti, while hostel accommodations will shift to the Games Village. A permanent 30-bigha campus has been earmarked in Sonapur, with the government assuring full infrastructural support.

The demolition began with the dismantling of classroom blocks, and hostel and ancillary buildings are scheduled for phased removal over the next 15 days. Officials confirmed that this is the largest institutional eviction in the proposed reservoir zone to date.

Following the IHM clearance, authorities will turn their attention to the eviction of Ginger Hotel and nearby tennis courts to make way for the reservoir. Excavation work is scheduled to begin in the upcoming dry season, with the reservoir expected to serve as a crucial water retention and discharge system, significantly reducing monsoon flood risks across the city.

“This initiative is not just about demolitions. It’s about reclaiming Guwahati’s ecological security,” emphasized the Minister.

Parallel to the eviction, Minister Mallabaruah also launched a city-wide urban inspection drive, visiting construction sites at Baghorbori, Koinadhora, Lokhra, Garchuk, Dharapur, Garigaon, and GS Road. The drive focused on ensuring compliance with building bylaws, structural safety standards, and environmental regulations.

“These inspections are critical to prevent further encroachment on natural drainage channels and reservoirs. Sustainable development must be backed by legal and environmental accountability,” said the Minister. He was joined by senior officials, including GMDA Chairman Narayan Deka, Guwahati Mayor Mrigen Sarania, and district administration representatives, signaling a unified approach toward urban resilience.

 Also Read: Assam CM on Threats:Eviction Drive to Continue

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