In a significant development aimed at protecting vulnerable communities from the relentless threat of river erosion, Thowra MLA Sushanta Borgohain officially inaugurated an anti-erosion initiative in the Dihing Kolghar area of Sivasagar district on Monday. This crucial project, led by the water resources department, seeks to reinforce the riverbanks and offer sustainable relief to residents who have endured the destructive impacts of the Brahmaputra's tributary for years.
Project Details and Strategic Implementation
Sanctioned with a budget of Rs 30.30 lakh, the project will concentrate on the strategic deployment of RCC Porcupine screens across 19 identified vulnerable spots along the riverbank. This targeted intervention is anticipated to directly benefit approximately seven villages in the region, which have historically faced severe land loss and displacement, particularly during the monsoon season.
Addressing a Critical Erosion Hotspot
The Dihing river is notorious for its high-velocity currents and substantial sediment load, especially in the pre-monsoon and monsoon months. For decades, the Dihing Kolghar region has been recognized as a hotspot for erosion, where the river's lateral migration has consumed hectares of land annually. This project is specifically designed to aid villages in the immediate vicinity, providing a much-needed respite for hundreds of villagers whose livelihoods hinge on the stability of the riverbanks.
MLA Sushanta Borgohain emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating, "Today marks a vital step in protecting the livelihoods of our people in Dihing Kolghar. By installing these 19 porcupine screens, we hope to control the perennial erosion in the area. I am hopeful that this project will play a transformative role in flood prevention before the rains arrive."
Understanding RCC Porcupine Screening Technology
RCC Porcupine screening represents a cost-effective and efficient method for erosion control. An RCC Porcupine consists of a tetrahedral structure made from six reinforced cement concrete members, each typically 3 metres in length, bolted together. These frames are arranged in clusters or screens along the riverbed and banks.
Unlike solid dams, these structures are permeable and function by disrupting the velocity of the river current. As water slows down while passing through them, it loses its capacity to carry sediment, leading to siltation. Over time, this accumulated silt forms a natural buffer of earth, effectively reclaiming land and preventing high-velocity floodwaters from directly striking and eroding the riverbank.
Long-Term Benefits and Community Impact
The implementation of this anti-erosion project is expected to yield long-term benefits, including enhanced flood resilience, reduced land loss, and improved safety for local communities. By stabilizing the riverbanks, it aims to safeguard agricultural lands, homes, and infrastructure, thereby supporting the socio-economic well-being of the affected villages.
This initiative underscores the government's commitment to addressing environmental challenges and protecting vulnerable populations from natural disasters. As the project progresses, it will be closely monitored to ensure its effectiveness in mitigating erosion and providing sustainable solutions for the region.
