The Kamrup district administration has imposed a prohibition on swimming, diving, and any other activities in the Brahmaputra River and its tributaries flowing through the district. The order, issued by District Commissioner Deba Kumar Mishra, who also chairs the district disaster management authority, comes into effect immediately and will remain in force until further notice. The decision was taken in response to the rising water levels in the river system due to continuous rainfall in the catchment areas.
Reason Behind the Prohibition
The directive aims to prevent drowning and other river-related accidents during the monsoon season. According to official records, six deaths due to drowning in floodwaters were reported in Kamrup district during the monsoon last year, and three such fatalities have been recorded in 2024 so far. The order highlights that strong currents, sudden rises in water levels, riverbank erosion, and submerged hazards pose serious threats to human life and safety.
Legal Basis and Enforcement
The order was issued under the provisions of the Disaster Management Act, 2005. It states that no person shall undertake any activity that exposes themselves or others to the risk of drowning or river-related accidents during the prevailing monsoon season. The district commissioner has directed police, revenue officials, response agencies, and other concerned authorities to monitor vulnerable river ghats and locations and take necessary measures to enforce the order. Any person found violating the order shall be liable for action under the relevant provisions of the Disaster Management Act, 2005, and other applicable laws.
Appeal to Residents
The DC has appealed to residents to exercise utmost caution and cooperate with the district administration in ensuring safety during the monsoon season. The administration emphasized that incidents of drowning and other water-related accidents are frequently reported during this season due to bathing, swimming, and other recreational activities in rivers and water bodies. The order is part of proactive measures to mitigate risks and protect lives.
