Reported by Farhana Ahmed
North Lakhimpur: Panic spread across several parts of Assam’s Lakhimpur district on Wednesday after the water level of the Ranganadi River rose sharply following the release of water from the North Eastern Electric Power Corporation’s (NEEPCO) Panyor Hydro Electric Project (PHEP) dam located at Yazali in Arunachal Pradesh.
Officials said the sudden surge was triggered by a massive cloudburst in the upper catchment area near the hydropower project, which led to intense rainfall, flash floods and extensive damage in upstream regions. To manage the heavy inflow into the reservoir, NEEPCO released water from the dam, resulting in a rapid increase in the river’s water level downstream.
The first signs of the rising water were reported around 8 am in the Panch Noi area and several riverbank villages, causing concern among local residents. With the district already experiencing continuous rainfall over the past few days, fears of fresh flooding have intensified in low-lying and vulnerable areas.
In response to the developing situation, the district administration activated emergency preparedness measures and began closely monitoring river conditions. State Water Resources Minister Sushanta Buragohain is also keeping a close watch on the flood situation in coordination with senior officials from the Water Resources Department and the district administration.
Authorities further reported a significant rise in the water levels of the Dikrong and Singra rivers due to flash floods originating from the hills of neighbouring Arunachal Pradesh. As a precautionary measure, State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) personnel have been kept on standby to respond to any emergency arising from possible flooding.
To ensure quick assistance to affected residents, the district administration has operationalised an emergency helpline. People requiring help have been asked to contact 6003186268.
According to information shared by NEEPCO, approximately 230.83 cumecs of water was released from the PHEP dam when the reservoir level reached 1500 mm around noon. A subsequent update received by the administration at 4 pm confirmed that water was being discharged through all six gates of the dam.
Authorities have urged residents living along the banks of the Ranganadi and other flood-prone rivers to remain vigilant, avoid unnecessary movement near riverbanks, and follow official advisories as the situation continues to be monitored.