IIHM demolished in Silsako eviction drive; Minister says encroachment fuelling Guwahati floods

As part of the ongoing eviction drive in the wetland areas near Silsako Beel, the Guwahati Metropolitan Development Authority (GMDA) on Monday demolished the campus of the Indian Institute of Hotel Management (IIHM) located in Cachal.

The demolition is part of a larger effort to reclaim the ecologically sensitive Silsako Beel, which has seen extensive encroachment over the years by individuals, institutions, and even state-run entities. 

Authorities say the unchecked encroachments have played a major role in worsening urban flooding in Guwahati.

Assam Housing & Urban Affairs Minister Jayanta Mallabaruah defended the action, stating, “Guwahati has a huge wetland called Silsako. But in the past, this land was encroached upon by the public, institutions and even government bodies. The demolition drive is being carried out to solve the urban flooding problem of Guwahati.”

Also Read: Encroachment and evictions: Assam Government’s decisive action

The eviction drive, which has witnessed strong administrative backing, aims to restore the natural flow of water and mitigate the city’s persistent monsoon waterlogging crisis. Several demolitions have already been carried out over the past months, affecting residential and commercial establishments alike.

Officials have clarified that notices had been issued to all occupants, and due process was followed in accordance with the Gauhati High Court's directives to preserve the wetland. 

The GMDA has indicated that further action will continue in phases across the wetland zone.