Guwahati: Union Minister of Water Resources Harish Rawat has said that the Centre will work with the Assam government to find a lasting solution to the recurring flood and erosion problem.
He was apprised on the gravity of the annual problem by Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi during a meeting here on Wednesday evening.
Mr Gogoi said the erosion of river banks and its tributaries have been a significant factor responsible for aggravating flood problem in the state.
He urged Mr Rawat to recognise flood and erosion problem of Assam as a ‘national problem’.
The Chief Minister urged Mr Rawat that the Ministry of Water Resources may include erosion as a natural disaster, thus qualifying for assistance under the National Disaster Relief Fund.
The Chief Minister reiterated the importance of flood protective measures in the flood plains along with catchment area management in the hills and scientifically designed drainage all over the state to keep pace with the infrastructure construction.
Raising the issue of construction of dams over the river Brahmaputra by China, Mr Gogoi urged Mr Rawat to initiate steps in right earnest for international cooperation to thwart any measures that are detrimental to the sustainability of the river Brahmaputra.
Mr Gogoi said the imperative need is to maintain the flow of water in the Brahmaputra river so that it can sustain the environment and water balance in the North East.
The Union minister assured the Chief Minister that he would closely look into the problems and find a solution to the recurring flood and erosion problem through the joint endeavour of both the Central and State Governments. (UNI)
