Historic Rang Ghar Submerged in Artificial Flood After Heavy Rainfall

Just one spell of heavy rain was enough to submerge the iconic Rang Ghar—the oldest amphitheatre in Asia—under knee-deep water, creating an atmosphere of distress around the revered monument. Often referred to as a symbol of Assamese pride and cultural identity, the Rang Ghar now lies helpless in the grip of an artificial flood, raising serious questions about the government’s failure to protect this treasured heritage site.

The flooding, according to local residents and experts, has been triggered by a large-scale construction project being undertaken just behind the Rang Ghar by the state government, with a reported budget of Rs 142 crore. Ironically, according to heritage conservation norms, no construction activity is allowed within a 300-metre radius of such a protected monument. Yet, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI)—the very agency entrusted with the monument's protection—has allegedly allowed multiple residential constructions within just 100 metres of the site.

This violation, say critics, has disrupted the natural drainage around the monument and led to large-scale waterlogging in the area, submerging the grounds surrounding Rang Ghar.

The situation is part of a larger crisis that has gripped Sivasagar town and its adjoining areas. Following heavy overnight rainfall, vast swathes of the town were waterlogged, with nearly all wards across its 14 municipal divisions affected by artificial flooding. Prominent and central roads—such as Doulmukh Chariali and Muktinath Chariali—were submerged, bringing daily life to a standstill.

Residents blame the administration’s lack of preparedness and negligence. Many allege that the flooding was exacerbated by the municipal board’s failure to clean drains and stormwater outlets before the onset of monsoon, despite repeated warnings.

“The authorities spent the dry season doing nothing. Now the rains are here, and people are suffering,” said a local resident.

Sivasagar, the ancient capital of the Ahom kingdom, holds immense historical significance. The Rang Ghar, in particular, is deeply intertwined with Assamese identity and heritage. The monument’s current state of neglect underlines a painful irony—while public funds are being poured into surrounding infrastructure, the cultural jewel at the heart of it all is being left to drown.

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