Lakhimpur (Assam), 05 August (HS): Assam Finance Minister Jayanta Mallabaruah on Wednesday inspected the erosion-hit Bonpuroi-Jamuguri area in Lakhimpur after the Brahmaputra River severely threatened the Jamuguri-Arimora embankment, a crucial flood protection barrier, and assured immediate government action.

The embankment has come under increasing pressure due to rising river levels and strong currents, resulting in intense erosion and the formation of a major crack. Officials fear that a section of the embankment could collapse into the river if urgent measures are not taken.

Authorities said a breach could inundate large parts of the Bihpuria and Gohpur Assembly constituencies, prompting heightened concern among local residents and the district administration. Many villagers shifted valuables and moved to safer places as a precaution amid fears of flooding.

Following the directions of Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, Mallabaruah reached the site in the afternoon and reviewed the situation with officials. He instructed the concerned departments to launch anti-erosion works on a war footing to strengthen the embankment and prevent further damage.

During the inspection, Chief Minister Sarma spoke to the Finance Minister over the phone and assured residents that the state government would take every possible step to protect the embankment and ensure the safety of vulnerable areas.

Bihpuria MLA Bhupen Kumar Bora, Gohpur MLA Utpal Bora and Ranganadi MLA Rishiraj Hazarika accompanied the Finance Minister during the site visit.-----------

Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash