orabat Flooding: Ri-Bhoi Administration Steps Up Measures to Keep Shillong-Guwahati Route Open

With recurring floods at Jorabat continuing to disrupt travel between Shillong and Guwahati, the Ri-Bhoi district administration has stepped up preparedness measures to ensure uninterrupted movement along the crucial highway.

Flooding was reported again at Jorabat on Tuesday morning, although the water receded by evening. In view of forecasts warning of possible flash floods, officials have been instructed to remain on heightened alert.

Ri-Bhoi Deputy Commissioner Dr Abhishek Saini said a detailed meeting involving various line departments was held to review the situation. Police personnel have also been directed to maintain a round-the-clock presence at the Jorabat junction to respond quickly to any disruption.

The administration is also examining alternative routes. Although the Killing-Pilangkata road can serve as a diversion, several portions remain in poor condition, limiting its usefulness during emergencies.

A technical team has been constituted to determine the factors responsible for the recurring flooding. The administration will consider further action based on the team’s findings.

The Water Resources Department had earlier been asked to conduct a comprehensive study on both immediate and long-term measures. Following its recommendations, private establishments, including hospitals and petrol pumps, have been instructed to keep drains outside their premises clear and ensure that no materials are dumped into them.

Officials have identified drainage bottlenecks as one of the major reasons behind the waterlogging. A drain carrying water from Meghalaya into Assam has reportedly narrowed because of blocked culverts, restricting its capacity to handle sudden surges in water flow.

The construction of the Jorabat flyover has also contributed to the problem, officials said. Excavation undertaken to achieve the required road height reportedly created a saucer-like depression, leaving the stretch vulnerable to water accumulation.

For a permanent solution, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has started work on a six-lane road connecting Khanapara and Jorabat. The project is also expected to include larger drainage systems to improve the movement of stormwater and reduce the risk of repeated flooding.