The red alert in Assam issued by the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has brought normal life to a halt, especially in the capital city, Guwahati. Incessant rainfall over the past 48 hours has caused extensive waterlogging across low-lying regions, leading to severe disruptions in transportation, residential areas, and public services. Authorities have moved swiftly to initiate emergency responses, while residents brace for further rain.
Read More: Tripura Orders CCTV in Private Schools, Warns of Strict Action
Heavy Rain Triggers Red Alert in Assam
The red alert in Assam follows relentless downpours across multiple districts. Guwahati recorded more than 120 mm of rainfall in a single day, far exceeding average levels. The intensity of the rain overwhelmed the city’s drainage system, submerging key roads and cutting off access to several areas.
In response, the Assam State Disaster Management Authority (ASDMA) activated emergency operations. Civic authorities issued advisories urging residents to stay indoors, while disaster response teams were deployed to the most affected zones. Relief camps have been established, and helplines set up to provide real-time support.
Guwahati Paralyzed by Massive Waterlogging
Massive waterlogging has thrown daily life in Guwahati into chaos. The red alert in Assam has turned prominent neighborhoods such as Zoo Road, Chandmari, Beltola, and Dispur into virtual lakes. Local residents reported knee-to-waist deep water entering homes and shops, with many areas experiencing power cuts and mobile network issues.
Vehicular movement has been severely affected. Public buses, autos, and even ambulances found it difficult to navigate the submerged roads. Emergency workers used boats and high-ground vehicles to assist those stranded. With the rain showing no signs of slowing, fear of landslides in the city’s surrounding hills has also grown.
Statewide Impact and Weather Forecast
The impact of the red alert in Assam is not limited to Guwahati. Districts like Dibrugarh, Dhemaji, Lakhimpur, and Barpeta are witnessing rising water levels in rivers, particularly the Brahmaputra and its tributaries, which are flowing dangerously close to the red mark.
The IMD has forecast continued rainfall for the next 72 hours, intensifying concern across the state. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has urged all administrative departments to stay on alert and coordinate relief measures efficiently. The government has also reached out to the central authorities seeking urgent funds for disaster management.
Experts point out that poor urban planning, clogged drains, and encroachment on natural wetlands have worsened the crisis. They emphasize the urgent need for sustainable urban infrastructure to withstand extreme weather, which is becoming increasingly common due to climate change.
Government Response and Public Advisory
With the red alert in Assam in place, the government has stepped up its relief operations. The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams have been deployed in vulnerable districts, and state disaster response personnel are on high alert. Schools and colleges in affected regions have been temporarily closed, and all scheduled examinations postponed.
Hospitals are on standby for potential health emergencies, particularly from waterborne diseases. Mobile medical units have been sent to flood-hit areas to provide quick medical aid. Meanwhile, authorities are advising the public to stock essential items, avoid venturing outdoors, and stay tuned to verified news sources for updates.
Social media platforms are flooded with images and videos capturing the scale of flooding and the ongoing rescue efforts. Citizens are also using online platforms to report emergencies, helping rescue teams respond faster.
The ongoing red alert in Assam has once again highlighted the state’s vulnerability to extreme weather. Guwahati’s widespread waterlogging and the impact on other districts underscore the need for long-term solutions like improved drainage, better planning, and robust climate adaptation strategies. As heavy rains continue, coordinated action from authorities and community resilience remain key to overcoming this crisis.
Have a Look- Unakoti in India: 5 Things You Didn’t Know About India’s Angkor Wat
