Guwahati Chief Secretary Orders Magisterial Inquiry Into Tragic Manhole Death During Floods
Chief Secretary Ravi Kota has ordered a comprehensive magisterial inquiry into the tragic death of a woman who fell into a manhole during heavy rain and severe flooding on Sunday night in the Maligaon area of Guwahati. Kota described such preventable incidents resulting in loss of life as "unacceptable" and issued a stern warning that any lapses in public safety protocols will be dealt with firmly and decisively.
Immediate Actions and Departmental Directives
In response to the incident, the Chief Secretary has directed the Public Works Department (Roads) to ensure complete and thorough desiltation of all drains across the city to prevent any recurrence of dangerous waterlogging situations. He has also instructed key civic bodies including the Guwahati Municipal Corporation (GMC), Guwahati Metropolitan Development Authority (GMDA), and the water resources department to maintain round-the-clock operational readiness to swiftly address flooding in identified vulnerable zones.
Review Meeting and Weather Preparedness
Kota convened a high-level review meeting with representatives from all relevant departments to assess the flooding situation and coordinate response efforts. During the meeting, he directed the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Assam State Disaster Management Authority (ASDMA), and District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) to issue timely and accurate weather forecasts and public advisories. This initiative aims to help citizens better plan their movements and take necessary precautions during adverse weather conditions.
"The situation has shown improvement in several areas, with targeted interventions continuing in locations still affected. For instance, waterlogging near Jorabat was cleared swiftly due to prior dredging efforts towards Byrnihat — this clearly highlights the critical importance of sustained and proactive desiltation work," Kota stated during the review.
Infrastructure Maintenance and High Alert
The Chief Secretary further instructed the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) to ensure continuous deployment of concessionaires for essential maintenance tasks. These include clearing cross-drainage culverts, operating drainage pumps, and removing accumulated silt, with primary focus on key stretches such as:
- Tetelia–Jalukbari
- Excel Care–Gorchuk
- Koinadhara–Tripura Road
- Jorabat–Khanapara
Given that the IMD has forecast additional rainfall in the coming days, Kota has directed all agencies to remain on high alert and maintain vigilant monitoring of the situation to prevent further tragedies and ensure public safety.
