PGPR urges CM’s immediate intervention in Dibrugarh waterlogging crisis

A CORRESPONDENT

DIBRUGARH: In a move highlighting growing civic concerns in Dibrugarh, Dr Aradhana Kataki, President of the Policy Group for People’s Rights (PGPR), a leading NGO in Upper Assam, submitted a memorandum through email on July 16 to the Chief Minister of Assam, drawing urgent attention to the severe and recurring problem of waterlogging at Jibon Phukan Nagar, a densely populated locality in the town.

The memorandum, submitted on behalf of the residents of the area, described a ‘deeply distressing situation’ that had arisen due to dysfunctional concrete drains constructed under the Non-Lapsable Central Pool of Resources (NLCPR) scheme. According to PGPR, the drains in question appeared not to be functioning as projected and unable to ensure continuous flow of rainwater. This has led to sudden and widespread flooding during monsoon rains.

This is not just an issue of inconvenience but one of public safety and human dignity, stated Dr Kataki in a press release following the submission. Repeated episodes of water entering homes have caused property damage, mental stress, and serious health risks to residents. Adding to the problem, the Rajabheta drain, a major outflow channel in the locality, remained choked and overflowed regularly, compounding the situation during heavy rains.

The NGO also alleged a lack of response from the Dibrugarh district administration, stating that multiple attempts to contact the District Commissioner had gone unanswered.

“Phone calls are ignored, and residents feel abandoned. This kind of indifference from public authorities, when the safety of citizens is at stake, is deeply disappointing,” the memorandum noted. In the document, PGPR appealed to the Chief Minister for the following urgent actions: assessment and immediate repair of the NLCPR-constructed concrete drains, timely and regular cleaning and desilting of the Rajabheta drain along with other drains, deployment of the Town and Country Planning Department to provide a scientific and long-term solution to drainage and water management in the area, and immediate installation of high-capacity water pumps at Lila Gogoi Road and Mancotta Road junctions, as originally planned under the NLCPR scheme.

PGPR pointed out that the water pumps had already been procured, yet for reasons unknown, they were yet to be installed till date. It strongly urged the Chief Minister to look into the matter personally and ensure that the required infrastructure was put in place without further delay.

The memorandum reflected the growing frustration among local communities in Dibrugarh, many of whom have faced repeated neglect despite raising valid concerns through official channels. PGPR reiterated its commitment to stand by the people and continue advocating for accountable governance and timely civic action.

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