AASU has threatened to launch agitation in Jorhat in view of large-scale erosion by the Brahmaputra at Nimatighat and the lackadaisical attitude of the water resources department in shoring up the embankment prior to the monsoons.
A delegation, led by state assistant general secretary of AASU, Jul Khound, comprising executive member of the central committee, Jitu Neog and other members on Monday visited Nimatighat area to take stock of the condition of the embankment of the Brahmaputra hit by continuous erosion over the years.
The delegation expressed serious concern over the eroded state of the number 2 bullhead, which is a part of the ambitious Nimati-Haatihal scheme that was undertaken by the government with central funding to tackle erosion by the mighty river in the early nineties.
The anti-erosion scheme was completed in 2006.
The delegation after observing the badly-damaged condition of the said bullhead slammed the water resources department for not taking necessary measures to carry out reconstruction work to thwart the threat of heavy erosion that may happen and wash away nearby villages.
Khound alleged that several representations to the water resources department to undertake reconstruction work of the number 2 bullhead during winter season but that no action was initiated in this regard.
Apprehending a grave threat to Jorhat, especially the riverine villages in the ensuing rainy season due to the almost washed away bullhead, the students’ body demanded that the department immediately undertake necessary steps on a war footing.
The students’ body alleged that a section of private contractors in connivance with government officials had undertaken anti-erosion works in a slipshod manner.
They also demanded that a long-term scheme be taken up by the government after having a proper scientific study to check erosion in a permanent way.