Dibrugarh: Assam Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya on Wednesday visited the Nagaghuli Ghat restoration project in Dibrugarh district to review ongoing efforts to repair flood damage along the Oakland dyke between Nagaghuli and Philonoguri.
During the visit, the Governor inspected the restoration work and held discussions with officials of the Water Resources Department on the project’s structural safety, long-term sustainability and measures to strengthen the embankment and its associated flood protection infrastructure.
The project, centred around Nagaghuli and the adjoining Maijan wetlands, aims to stabilise the Brahmaputra riverbank, prevent erosion and restore the ecological health of the wetlands. Officials said the initiative has benefited around 23 villages, protecting nearly two lakh people and more than 1,050 hectares of agricultural land.
Highlighting the urgency of the intervention, Acharya said the project was undertaken in response to rapid erosion along the Brahmaputra. He noted that emergency measures, including the deployment of geo-bags and porcupine structures, have been incorporated to reduce the river’s force and protect nearby settlements and vulnerable stretches of land.
The Governor also outlined his vision for developing the riverfront into a sustainable public space. He suggested large-scale plantation along the embankment, along with the creation of recreational and tourism facilities, while ensuring that flood protection and public safety remain the top priorities.
He said such initiatives would improve the ecological and aesthetic value of the riverbank while creating employment and livelihood opportunities for local youth through tourism and related sectors.
During the inspection, Additional Chief Engineer of the Water Resources Department (Upper Assam Zone), Samiran Deka, and Executive Engineer of the Dibrugarh Water Resources Division, Pradip Das, briefed the Governor on the project’s progress and technical components.
Joint Secretary to the Governor, Arindam Barua, accompanied the Governor during the visit. Dibrugarh Deputy Development Commissioner Nandita Baruah was also present.