Chief Minister of Assam, Himanta Biswa Sarma, has claimed that the recent floods in Guwahati was made worse by the University of Science and Technology, Meghalaya (USTM), calling it “flood jihad.” The Assam Chief Minister blamed the escalation of waterlogging in the city on USTM’s actions, which included clearing hills and forests on campus to make room for new construction, including a medical institution.
The grave charge was made in the wake of Monday’s intense rains, which caused extensive flooding in Guwahati and caused residents’ misery. According to CM Sarma, the waterlogging situation has been greatly exacerbated by the university’s measures. “I think the owner of USTM has ignited a flood jihad. This is not how people who love the natural world chop down hills and forests. These days, slopes can support structures with the right architectural plan,” CM Sarma said.
CM Sarma has informed that a letter addressing the issue has been sent to Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma. The two CM’s of the neighbouring states were expected to meet Friday night in order to thoroughly discuss the matter. Although the Assam CM admitted that USTM is not the only reason behind the floods, he indicated that it is a contributing factor. “It is one of the reasons, not the main reason. Our people are also responsible for constructions on drains,” he said.
“We are accountable and capable of managing rain in Guwahati. He went on, “USTM is accountable for Guwahati flooding if there isn’t any rain there. The chief minister of Assam proposed a possible solution: the floodwater should be redirected to Silsako Lake and subsequently directed towards Meghalaya.
