Guwahati: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on November 5 reviewed the progress of a proposed Flood Plain Zoning Bill intended to regulate construction and land use along riverbanks as part of efforts to strengthen the state’s flood management system.
The proposed legislation aims to create designated prohibited and restricted zones along river channels. These restrictions would limit activities in flood-prone areas and allow rivers adequate space to follow their natural courses during floods.
According to the Chief Minister’s Office (CMO), the bill proposes setting up Flood Zoning Authorities at different administrative levels to oversee its implementation. The framework will cover both rural and urban areas, with the objective of minimising risks to lives, property and livelihoods.
During the review meeting, Sarma directed officials to ensure that the proposed legislation safeguards the interests of Scheduled Tribe (ST) and Scheduled Caste (SC) communities traditionally residing along riverbanks.
The bill is expected to be introduced in the next session of the Assam Legislative Assembly.
The proposed legislation comes against the backdrop of recurring flood-related losses in Assam. Floods in four Upper Assam districts – Sivasagar, Charaideo, Jorhat and Golaghat in July this year claimed 104 lives, underscoring the need for stronger measures to mitigate flood risks.