SHILLONG : Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong has rejected allegations that Meghalaya is responsible for recurring floods in Assam, stating that the problem is driven by geography, inadequate infrastructure and unpredictable rainfall rather than actions by any one state.
Speaking to reporters on Wednesday, Tynsong said flooding naturally occurs in low-lying areas and cannot always be predicted due to changing weather patterns.
“Floods happen because of certain reasons. They do not occur in the hilly areas but in the lower levels,” he said.
The Deputy Chief Minister explained that poor drainage systems and inadequate infrastructure in low-lying regions often worsen flooding and waterlogging.
“When you are in the lower level, if proper drainage or infrastructure is not designed, then naturally flooding happens. It is also impossible to predict exactly when heavy rainfall will occur,” he said.
Responding to repeated allegations that Meghalaya causes floods in neighbouring Assam, Tynsong said it would be unfair to blame either state.
“People often blame Meghalaya because it is at a higher elevation while Assam lies in the plains. But it is not possible to directly blame Meghalaya, nor is it right for Meghalaya to blame Assam. Ultimately, both states share the responsibility,” he said.
Tynsong said consultants engaged by both the state and central governments have already incorporated improved drainage systems and culverts into upcoming infrastructure projects to reduce the impact of flooding.
“The drainage system has to be properly designed and the culvert system must be in place. These aspects have already been included by the consultants handling the projects,” he said.
He also highlighted Assam’s proposed six-lane ring road project, saying it would improve regional connectivity and benefit Meghalaya as well.
According to Tynsong, the planned speed corridor will connect Sonapur with Ri-Bhoi before linking to Umiam, providing faster connectivity towards Silchar and strengthening transport infrastructure in the region.
He said better infrastructure and coordinated planning between Meghalaya and Assam are essential to tackling flood-related challenges while improving connectivity for both states.