Guwahati: The Assam government has ordered a magisterial inquiry into the death of a woman in Maligaon who was swept away amid severe waterlogging triggered by heavy rainfall in Guwahati on April 19.
The decision was taken at a high-level review meeting chaired by Chief Secretary Ravi Kota, where the District Commissioner was directed to initiate an inquiry to determine responsibility. Officials said incidents involving loss of life due to preventable causes would be dealt with strictly.
The victim, identified as Payel Nath Das, reportedly fell into an uncovered drain during intense rainfall, amid poor visibility and strong water flow.
Authorities have instructed the India Meteorological Department, the Assam State Disaster Management Authority, and district administrations to ensure timely weather forecasts and issue prompt advisories.
The National Highways Authority of India has been tasked with maintaining drainage systems and ensuring round-the-clock deployment of pumps. Civic bodies, including the Guwahati Municipal Corporation and other departments, have also been asked to remain on high alert in flood-prone zones.
The review meeting followed intense rainfall resembling cloudburst-like conditions, with several parts of the city recording around 120 mm of rain within a few hours, causing widespread disruption.
Officials said coordinated efforts are underway to restore normalcy, even as forecasts indicate continued rainfall in the coming days.