Shillong, Sept 28: Nongpoh MLA Mayralborn Syiem on Monday said climate change and unregulated construction activities are leading to frequent waterlogging and flooding in Ri-Bhoi district and other parts of the state.
Syiem said the weather pattern in the last two-three years has changed and climate change is a major factor, but man-made activities have worsened the situation.
“There is random earth cutting and throwing of earth. Earlier where we had natural drains of 15 feet, with increase in population, people are building houses, commercial complexes and roads. A 15-feet natural drain has now been reduced to 7 feet. So where will the water go? It will try to find its way and finally reach someone’s kitchen as there is no way out,” he told reporters.
The BJP legislator said he had held a meeting with the Water Resources department, PWD and Urban Affairs department to address the issue in towns like Byrnihat, Nongpoh and Jorabat.
“These are small towns where we have to concentrate on drains and cross-drains, even along the national highway. A cross-drain built in 2010 may have been blocked after 15 years. The amount of rainwater is more now compared to those years, and with garbage and dirt thrown by citizens and shops, it has led to waterlogging,” he said.
Syiem said flooding is no longer limited to Assam or Meghalaya.
“Flooding is not only in Jorabat, Shillong or Nongpoh, but also in Guwahati, Delhi, Bangalore. It is a common issue nowadays and a concern for all,” he said.
On steps to address it, he said, “We have to put our heads together. Some policy has to come up, experts have to be brought in and various departments have to come forward to address this issue.”
He also informed that on October 2, a beautification programme will be held at a complex in the district.
“We will be hosting a programme with the district administration where I will inaugurate some beautification works. We are slowly trying to bring changes to make it people-friendly where tourists and commuters can come, buy things and spend time. We are exploring possibilities to make it beautiful,” he added.
