The pertinent issue of riverbank erosion in Assam took center stage at a comprehensive one-day consultation hosted at the Don Bosco Institute in Kharguli, Guwahati, on April 24.
Organized by People’s Association for Development (PAD), the event gathered government officials, environmental experts, researchers, and community leaders to address the challenges posed by riverbank erosion and explore potential solutions.
Central to the discussion was a newly released technical report by PAD, shedding light on the complex dynamics of riverbank erosion in Lakhimpur and Majuli districts of Assam and offering insights into mitigation strategies. The report serves as a resource for policymakers and planners grappling with the multifaceted impacts of this environmental phenomenon.
Attendees engaged in debates and knowledge-sharing sessions, drawing upon their collective expertise to identify priorities and chart a course of action. Discussions ranged from socio-economic impacts on affected communities to ecological consequences for fragile ecosystems, all approached with a sense of urgency and purpose.
Partha Jyoti Das, head of water, climate and hazard division at Aaranyak, emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts. “Riverbank erosion is not merely an environmental challenge; it is a humanitarian crisis that requires concerted action. By harnessing the collective wisdom and resources of diverse stakeholders, we can develop holistic strategies to mitigate its impact and build resilient communities,” he said.
The consultation also provided a platform for fostering partnerships and forging alliances among stakeholders, laying the groundwork for sustained engagement and collaboration in combating riverbank erosion.
