Silchar: Former Silchar MP Dr. Rajdeep Roy on Saturday carried out an extensive inspection of critical embankments at Bethukandi and Nathpara, underlining the need for preparedness and swift action to deal with recurring waterlogging in the town.

The visit comes at a time when several parts of Silchar are already facing waterlogging following continuous rainfall, raising fresh concerns among residents, particularly those living in low-lying areas near the Barak River.

During his visit, Dr. Roy interacted directly with engineers and officials on the ground at Bethukandi to understand the present condition of flood control infrastructure. He later inspected the Kanakpur Nathpara dyke to review the level of preparedness ahead of the peak monsoon season.

Referring to the devastating floods of 2022, Dr. Roy noted that both Bethukandi and Nathpara dykes were in poor condition at the time, which allowed water to breach through vulnerable points and inundate large parts of the town. “These are critical locations, and we cannot afford a repeat of that situation,” he said.

Dr. Roy also mentioned that he had been out of Silchar for the past few days due to engagements related to the Bengal elections. However, he said the department had already initiated preliminary inspections with its engineers. Upon his return to Silchar, he personally visited the sites to take stock of the situation.

He was accompanied by a team of senior BJP leaders and local representatives, including Bimalendu Roy, former Silchar Development Authority chairman Manjul Deb, nominee Pulak Das, and other party functionaries. Along with officials from the concerned department, the team conducted a detailed inspection of the embankments and adjoining areas.

Speaking after the inspection, Dr. Roy said both the strengths and shortcomings of the current system were carefully reviewed. He expressed cautious optimism that the department is better prepared this year and that timely interventions could help prevent large-scale flooding. He added that although some work is still pending, it has already received approval and there are no financial hurdles. The remaining work is expected to be completed within a few days once the rains subside.

Highlighting future plans, Dr. Roy said the department has proposed several long-term measures aimed at strengthening flood control mechanisms and improving water management systems in Silchar. These initiatives, he noted, are essential to ensure that residents do not have to face repeated flood-related distress.

At the same time, he cautioned against alarmist reporting, urging media organisations to avoid creating unnecessary panic among the public. “At times, reports suggest that heavy rain will immediately lead to embankment breaches. Such narratives can create fear among people and should be avoided,” he said.

Officials present during the visit informed that construction and maintenance activities are ongoing in various parts of the town. Special attention is being given to the upkeep of sluice gates, which play a crucial role in regulating water flow during heavy rainfall. Workers, they said, are engaged in continuous efforts to strengthen the system.

As part of his inspection, Dr. Roy also visited the Berenga river bund and several areas where drains are clogged with garbage. Taking note of the situation, he directed officials to begin immediate clean-up operations to ensure smooth drainage and reduce waterlogging.

Emphasising the importance of a coordinated and scientific approach, Dr. Roy said the Water Resources Department must carry out flood control work in a more structured and expert-driven manner. He added that he has asked the department to keep him informed in advance about any emerging situation and assured full support from his side whenever required.

With the monsoon intensifying, the inspection and subsequent directives are seen as a timely intervention, even as residents continue to grapple with waterlogging and remain wary of a repeat of past floods.