Zero-tolerance policy against corruption in flood-control projects: Assam minister

Guwahati, June 19 (IANS) Assam Water Resources Minister Sushanta Borgohain on Friday asserted that the state government would adopt a zero-tolerance approach against corruption and substandard work in embankment and flood-control projects, warning that even influential contractors would face strict action if found guilty of wrongdoing.

Speaking to reporters here, Borgohain said the Water Resources Department has been closely monitoring ongoing anti-erosion and flood-protection works across the state and would not hesitate to lodge FIRs, blacklist contractors and initiate other punitive measures against those involved in irregularities.

“Even if a very well-known or influential person is found carrying out poor-quality work, we will take action. FIRs will be filed and the contractors will be blacklisted. Our objective is to ensure that the department remains trustworthy in the eyes of the people,” the minister said.

Borgohain acknowledged that concerns are often raised on social media regarding erosion-control measures and embankment works, particularly temporary structures installed during the monsoon season.

He explained that several ongoing interventions involve the use of geobags and other temporary protective measures aimed at preventing floodwaters and erosion from causing immediate damage.

The minister clarified that such works are not permanent solutions but emergency measures designed to provide short-term protection during the peak flood season.

“These geobag-based interventions are temporary in nature. Some bags may get displaced while others remain in place because they are being used as an immediate safeguard to prevent the Brahmaputra and other rivers from advancing into vulnerable areas,” he said.

Borgohain further stated that the government plans to undertake permanent erosion-control and river-management works after the monsoon season, particularly from November onwards, when weather conditions become more suitable for long-term engineering interventions.

He stressed that the department is maintaining strict vigilance over all ongoing projects and reiterated that there would be “zero per cent compromise” on quality standards.

The minister said the state government remains committed to ensuring transparency, accountability and durability in flood-control infrastructure while protecting people living in erosion-prone and flood-affected regions of Assam.

–IANS

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