At least five people died in Guwahati landslides triggered by relentless rainfall in Assam. The incidents occurred in multiple parts of the city early Saturday morning, with landslides flattening homes in hilly areas. Authorities confirmed the deaths and expressed concern over possible victims still trapped under debris.
The first reports came in from the Boragaon and Noonmati localities, where houses built along vulnerable slopes were buried under mounds of mud and stones. Rescue teams, including the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), worked through heavy downpours to retrieve bodies and search for survivors.
Officials fear more landslides could follow as heavy rainfall is forecast to continue for the next 48 hours.
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Widespread Disruption Across the City
Guwahati, Assam’s largest city, has been battered by non-stop rainfall since Friday evening. Roads remain submerged in major areas such as Chandmari, Zoo Road, and GS Road. Traffic has come to a standstill, and public transport services have been suspended in many routes due to waterlogging.
In response to the emergency, the Kamrup Metro district administration announced the closure of all schools and colleges on Saturday. The move was aimed at ensuring the safety of students and staff amid treacherous travel conditions.
The Guwahati landslides that killed 5 have turned the spotlight back on the city’s inadequate drainage systems and unchecked construction on hill slopes.
Rescue Operations Underway
Rescue teams from SDRF, National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), and Assam Police have been deployed to landslide-affected zones. So far, they have retrieved five bodies, including two minors. Teams are using excavators and hand tools to clear debris in narrow lanes inaccessible to large vehicles.
Local volunteers joined in the rescue efforts despite the rain. Authorities have urged residents in high-risk areas to evacuate and move to safer ground.
State Disaster Management Authority (ASDMA) officials said more teams were on standby as Guwahati remains under an orange alert.
CM Himanta Biswa Sarma Responds
Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma expressed deep sorrow over the Guwahati landslides that killed 5 and ordered immediate relief efforts. “We are doing everything to save lives. Rescue operations will continue without break,” he said in a press briefing.
The Chief Minister also announced an ex-gratia of ₹4 lakh each for the families of the deceased and promised medical support for the injured.
Instructions have been issued to all district officials to remain on high alert, especially in hill-prone and flood-risk areas.
Poor Urban Planning Under Scrutiny
The recurring landslides in Guwahati have once again raised concerns about illegal encroachments and unsafe construction on hill slopes. Environmental activists argue that poor urban planning and haphazard infrastructure have worsened the impact of extreme weather.
Experts from the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Guwahati noted that rampant deforestation and blocked drainage channels contribute to frequent landslides.
The Guwahati landslides that killed 5 could have been avoided, say locals, had authorities acted earlier on warnings issued over the years.
Weather Forecast: More Rain Ahead
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Assam will continue to receive heavy to very heavy rainfall over the next two days. Guwahati, in particular, is likely to face more waterlogging and possible fresh landslides in vulnerable zones.
The department has advised people to stay indoors and avoid traveling unless absolutely necessary. Schools and colleges in adjoining districts may also be shut if conditions worsen.
Officials are reviewing the situation hourly and will issue alerts as needed to ensure public safety.
Relief Camps and Helplines
The Kamrup Metro district administration has opened temporary relief camps at local schools and community centers. These shelters are offering food, water, and basic medical services to those displaced by the landslides.
Two emergency helpline numbers have been activated to help citizens report missing persons or seek rescue assistance.
Municipal staff and volunteers have also begun clearing blocked drains to prevent further flooding in the city.
The Guwahati landslides that killed 5 serve as a grim reminder of the dangers posed by unregulated urban expansion and severe weather. While rescue teams battle the elements to save lives, the state government must take long-term measures to reduce the city’s vulnerability to such tragedies.
As Assam continues to face intense rainfall, vigilance, preparedness, and responsible urban development will be key to avoiding further loss.
