Local students in Dibrugarh staged a hunger strike demanding urgent anti-erosion measures on the Maijan–Bogibeel stretch of the Brahmaputra river.

The stretch is among the most erosion-prone zones threatening Dibrugarh town, a major urban and economic centre of Upper Assam.

What is the issue?

• The Brahmaputra, a highly dynamic braided river, causes intense lateral erosion, especially during the monsoon.
• ADSU alleged that anti-erosion works by the Water Resources Department have slowed down or stalled, despite the dry season being the most suitable period for long-term interventions.
• Temporary measures like geobags have repeatedly failed, offering only short-term relief.

Why Dibrugarh is vulnerable

• Located close to the southern bank of the Brahmaputra, with loose alluvial soil.
• Faces combined threats of bank erosion, flooding, and channel migration.
• Urban expansion has increased exposure of infrastructure and population to river hazards.

Students’ demands

• Immediate intervention by the Chief Minister and senior officials.
• Shift from temporary fixes to permanent, scientifically designed anti-erosion solutions.
• Time-bound execution of works during the lean (non-monsoon) season.

Exam Hook:
Q. Consider the following statements about riverbank erosion in Assam:

1. The Brahmaputra’s braided nature increases erosion risk.
2. Geobags are considered a permanent solution to river erosion.
3. Dry season is most suitable for major anti-erosion works.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Answer: 1 and 3 only

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