Assam Govt Pledges Strong Support for Traditional Dong Bundh System in Baksa, Tamulpur

Assam Health, Family Welfare, and Irrigation Minister Ashok Singhal on Wednesday chaired a crucial meeting at the District Commissioner’s office in Baksa, focusing on the conservation and management of the region’s traditional Dong Bundh systems, vital lifelines for agriculture in Baksa and Tamulpur districts.

The meeting brought together key stakeholders, including members of Dong Bundh Management Committees, senior irrigation officials, and district administrators. Addressing the gathering, Minister Singhal emphasised the crucial role the Dong Bundh system has played in supporting farming communities for nearly eight decades. He reassured that the state government remains committed to preserving these traditional irrigation structures.

“Dong Bundhs are a natural heritage of Assam and essential for the livelihood of thousands of farmers. Their protection is not just a necessity, it is our responsibility,” said Singhal.

The Minister instructed irrigation officials from Baksa, Udalguri, and Tamulpur districts to undertake immediate field visits to assess the current condition of the Dong Bundhs. He also received several memoranda from committee representatives highlighting pressing issues, such as the clearing of trees and boulders deposited during seasonal floods and urgent repairs to canal gates.

In response, Singhal directed officials to take swift action on these concerns. He also stressed the importance of integrating Dong Bundhs with broader irrigation projects for more efficient water management.

A proposal to widen canal networks in Tamulpur was also discussed, with the aim of boosting irrigation capacity. Emphasising a balance between agricultural sustainability and environmental conservation, Singhal called on the District Commissioner to remain actively engaged in monitoring these efforts.

The Minister further instructed the Chief Engineer of the Irrigation Department to conduct a detailed field study assessing the Dong Bundh system’s operational efficiency, its socio-economic contributions, and long-term viability. The report is expected to guide future policy and resource allocation.

Among the key attendees were Bodoland Territorial Council Legislative Assembly Speaker Katiram Bodo, Baksa DC Gautam Das, and senior representatives from the irrigation department and local Dong Bundh committees.

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