Assam Initiates Long-Term Protection Measures for Bhogdoi River Embankments

Dispur, India Aug 28, 2026 ALN: Assam Water Resources Minister Sushanta Borgohain inspected the embankment of the Bhogdoi River in Jorhat and announced that excavation and strengthening work along the river basin would begin soon. The Bhogdoi River, which flows through the Jorhat district, has been prone to flooding, particularly during the monsoon season, leading to significant damage to infrastructure and affecting local communities.

The reconstruction of five embankment sections damaged by the recent flooding of the Bhogdoi River was completed following the Chief Minister's directive, the minister said. The damaged stretches were rebuilt using geo-bag tubes as part of efforts to provide immediate relief to flood-affected residents. Geo-bag technology involves the use of bags filled with sand or soil, which can be stacked to create a temporary barrier against floodwaters, providing a quick solution to protect against further inundation.

Borgohain stated that the government is now planning wider measures to strengthen the Bhogdoi basin and improve the river's carrying capacity. The proposed work will cover the stretch from the river's origin near the Assam-Nagaland border to its confluence with the Brahmaputra. This comprehensive approach is aimed at not only addressing immediate concerns but also ensuring long-term resilience against flooding, which is a recurring issue in the region.

Explaining the proposed excavation, the minister emphasized that the work would not involve digging the river like a drain but would focus on deepening shallow portions and improving the flow of water. This method is crucial because it aims to enhance the natural hydrology of the river, allowing it to manage higher volumes of water during peak flow periods without causing overflow.

“Regarding the Bhogdoi basin, from the mouth where the Bhogdoi started near the Assam-Nagaland border up to the area where it meets the Brahmaputra, we will construct the embankments and undertake digging,” Borgohain said. This statement underscores the government's commitment to a systematic and strategic approach in managing river systems, which are vital for both irrigation and drinking water supply in the region.

He added that the government was also in touch with the World Bank for a second phase of embankment repair and reconstruction. The involvement of international financial institutions like the World Bank indicates the scale of the project and the recognition of the need for sustainable water management practices in Assam. Such collaborations often bring technical expertise and financial resources that are crucial for large-scale infrastructure projects.

“Now we are looking forward to repairing the embankment of Bhogdoi. We are in touch with the World Bank and in the second phase we will take that up,” he said. This phase is expected to involve more comprehensive assessments and potentially larger funding to address the root causes of the flooding and not just the symptoms.

According to Borgohain, the government also plans to construct a one-kilometre stretch along the PWD road opposite the affected area, with tubes to be installed underneath and the embankment raised by around three metres. This proactive measure aims to create a buffer against future flood events, thereby enhancing the safety of nearby communities and infrastructure.

The minister noted that the recent floods damaged six embankments in Jorhat district and one in neighbouring Sivasagar district. The government intends to strengthen vulnerable embankment stretches to prevent similar breaches during future floods. The identification of these vulnerable points is critical, as it allows for targeted interventions that can significantly reduce the risk of flooding and its associated impacts.

“Six embankments in Jorhat district and one embankment in Sivasagar district broke down during the recent floods. To avoid breaking down of embankments again at vulnerable points, we will strengthen and raise them and use tubes to create embankments,” he said. This statement reflects a growing understanding of the need for adaptive strategies in flood management, which take into account the changing climate and its effects on weather patterns.

Borgohain further stated that the government would also undertake measures to secure the Dorika and Dikhow rivers and rebuild vulnerable embankments in these areas. The Dorika and Dikhow rivers, like the Bhogdoi, are essential waterways that support local agriculture and livelihoods, making their protection a priority for the state government.

He estimated that around Rs 3,000-4,000 crore could be required for the large-scale embankment reconstruction and strengthening programme. This financial estimate highlights the magnitude of the undertaking and the necessity for careful budgeting and resource allocation to ensure that the projects are completed effectively and sustainably.

In conclusion, the Assam government's initiatives to strengthen the Bhogdoi River embankments and improve flood management practices are part of a broader strategy to enhance the resilience of local communities against natural disasters. As climate change continues to pose challenges to traditional water management systems, such proactive measures are essential for safeguarding lives, livelihoods, and infrastructure in flood-prone regions like Assam. The collaboration with international organizations and the strategic planning involved in these projects could serve as a model for other regions facing similar challenges.