Artificial Floods Grip Assam: Duliajan and Kaziranga Drown in Neglect

Aanesha Sharma

The state of Assam continues to suffocate under the weight of artificial floods, exposing systemic failures in drainage infrastructure and administrative apathy. Two regions, Duliajan and Kaziranga, have become examples of neglect where everyday life has become a struggle against the water crisis and bureaucratic silence. While Duliajan suffers from prolonged submersion throughout the year, Kaziranga grapples with floods caused by minor rainfall, tarnishing its global tourism appeal.

Duliajan

Duliajan’s flood crisis is chronic. Located in upper Assam’s oil-rich belt, many areas in the heart of Duliajan remain submerged not for days or weeks, but for 8-9 months every year. The misery has continued for over 15 years, unabated and largely ignored.

The waterlogged homes in Duliajan are not just inconvenient, they are uninhabitable. Yet people continue to live in them, often forced to cook while standing in water, exposed to dangerous reptiles and disease. Snakes slither freely in these stagnant waters, creating panic and real danger, especially for children and the elderly.

One resident shared: “I’ve lived in these conditions for nearly a decade. My eldest daughter is differently abled, and my younger one is just five. No MLA, no official has come to check on us. During elections, they promise that they'll improve the drainage, roads, and help us, but nothing happens.”

The absence of drainage systems means people constantly walk in contaminated water, leading to serious health issues.

“Snakes are frequent. Apart from that, this water has taken a toll on our health. My son is sick now, and my husband’s feet are covered in rashes,” said another resident. “My brother had to move out because his feet began to rot. We've sent applications to the government multiple times, but no help has come. Nobody has even come to check our living conditions.”

In such waterlogged conditions, the use of any kind of electrical appliances becomes life-threatening due to the risk of electrocution. Elderly residents, with no means to relocate, are especially vulnerable.

The repeated flooding and state inaction have triggered deep resentment, leading to mounting frustration. Citizens now demand answers from those in power. 

Kaziranga

While Duliajan suffers from prolonged submersion, Kaziranga, one of Assam’s most iconic tourist destinations, is grappling with artificial flooding caused by inadequate road drainage. In Durgapur, a region under Cabinet Minister Atul Bora’s constituency, even a brief spell of rain leaves roads flooded up to the knees.

The impacted area includes the 37th National Highway and the road leading to the Orchid Garden, both crucial for tourism. Tourist cars often stall while crossing the flooded paths, creating an embarrassing and frustrating experience for visitors and locals alike.

“In Durgapur, after just a small rain, artificial floods engulf the roads,” said a local. “We have informed the administration many times. Even the circle officer came and inspected the area a month ago, but there has been no action. The roads are a disgrace.”

The residents also expressed shame over the condition of a region known for its ecological and tourist value. “Sometimes tourist cars get stuck in the water. It is humiliating for us as residents. The administration needs to fix the drainage and roads immediately,” the resident added.

Despite repeated appeals, both from residents and tourism stakeholders, the administration remains unresponsive. The artificial floods not only hinder daily movement but also threaten Kaziranga’s reputation as a premier wildlife destination.

Both Duliajan and Kaziranga highlight the devastating impact of artificial floods, caused not by nature but by man-made neglect. In Duliajan, it is a health and survival issue; in Kaziranga, it is a blow to tourism and local dignity. The absence of political accountability and administrative urgency leaves people with unanswered questions. 

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