Guwahati flood concerns: Conrad Sangma says Assam, Meghalaya will jointly minimise development impact

National People's Party (NPP) president and Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad Sangma on July 25 said Assam and Meghalaya would work together to minimise the environmental impact of development activities following concerns that unchecked construction along the inter-state border has contributed to flooding and landslides in Guwahati.

Responding to a question on recent remarks by Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, who had alleged that unregulated development along the Assam-Meghalaya border had aggravated Guwahati's flood and landslide problems, Sangma said development is necessary but must be carried out responsibly.

"Development happens in all states and it is needed. Flooding is a matter of concern, and there are multiple reasons behind it," Sangma said.

He said both state governments are closely monitoring the issue through official channels, although no formal joint committee has been constituted so far.

"I regularly speak with Himanta Biswa Sarma, even on small issues. We have also discussed the flood situation. We will find ways and figure out how to minimise its impact," Sangma said.

The Meghalaya chief minister stressed that addressing the issue would require coordinated action from both Assam and Meghalaya.

"Steps have to be taken from both sides," he added, underscoring the need for greater inter-state cooperation to reduce the environmental impact of development while tackling recurring flood and landslide concerns affecting Guwahati.