Dibrugarh: The Brahmaputra’s relentless erosion has put a crucial flood-protection structure in Dibrugarh under growing threat, with riverbank erosion at Thakurbari in the Maijan area advancing dangerously close to the Dibrugarh Town Protection (DTP) Dyke.
The erosion has reportedly continued for nearly a week, washing away substantial portions of the riverbank. Local residents said the affected area is now only around 10 metres from the DTP Dyke, increasing fears that further erosion could weaken the embankment.
The DTP Dyke serves as a key line of defence for Dibrugarh town and nearby areas during periods of high water levels. Any significant damage or breach could expose large parts of the town and surrounding settlements to flooding.
People living in and around Thakurbari are closely watching the situation as the river continues to eat into the bank. Residents fear that stronger currents or a rise in water levels could accelerate the erosion and bring the river even closer to the embankment.
The location has become particularly sensitive because of Dibrugarh’s geographical setting. Local resident Mintu Das said the Brahmaputra’s riverbed in the area is reportedly higher than the level of the town, meaning a possible breach of the DTP Dyke could result in rapid inundation of several parts of Dibrugarh.
Residents have called on the Water Resources Department and district administration to carry out an immediate assessment of the vulnerable stretch and strengthen protective measures before the erosion worsens.
Responding to the situation, the Water Resources Department has reportedly begun placing geo-bags along the affected stretch to slow the river’s advance and provide temporary protection to the bank.
However, some residents have questioned whether the current intervention will be sufficient. They pointed to earlier instances where geo-bag protection measures were unable to withstand sustained river pressure.
The latest development has once again brought attention to Dibrugarh’s vulnerability to riverbank erosion during the monsoon season. With the erosion site now so close to the DTP Dyke, residents are urging authorities to take stronger and more durable measures to protect the embankment and prevent a potentially serious flood threat to the town.
