Barak prepares to reinforce embankments prior to monsoon season; 24x7 control room to be operational from May 1

Silchar: With the monsoon round the corner, water resources department (WRD) has stepped up preparedness across the Barak Valley, focusing on embankment safety and rapid response systems to minimise flood risks.At a high-level review meeting held in Silchar on Friday, additional chief engineer Atul Patowary asked officials to maintain “proactive alertness” and ensure that all preventive infrastructure is in place before heavy rains set in. The meeting was attended by engineers and officials from all the four water resources divisions of the Barak Valley.Officials said extensive field surveys have already been completed across Cachar, Hailakandi and Sribhumi districts. The department reviewed detailed reports on the condition of embankments along major rivers and tributaries, identifying vulnerable stretches that may require immediate intervention.“The primary phase of our flood management plan is complete. We are closely monitoring embankments that have shown signs of weakness in previous seasons,” a senior WRD official said.To strengthen emergency response, the department will operationalise a 24x7 control room from May 1. Stockpiling of sandbags and geo-bags has also begun at strategic points to plug breaches or leaks at short notice.Patowary directed all four divisions to maintain round-the-clock surveillance and act swiftly on any signs of structural stress. “If any embankment is found in a precarious condition, corrective measures must be taken immediately,” he said.With resources being mobilised and contingency plans in place, WRD officials said the goal this season is to achieve “zero breaches” through early intervention and constant monitoring.