6 dead last yr, 3 in 2024: Kamrup says stay out of Brahmaputra

Guwahati: Swimming, diving, or any other activity in the Brahmaputra and its tributaries flowing through Kamrup district has been prohibited by the district administration until further orders, in view of the rising water levels. The move aims to prevent drowning and other river‑related accidents during the monsoon season.During the monsoon last year, six deaths due to drowning in floodwaters were reported in Kamrup district, and three in 2024.Kamrup district commissioner and chairperson of the district disaster management authority, Deba Kumar Mishra, issued the order under the provisions of the Disaster Management Act, 2005, stating that “no person shall undertake any activity that exposes oneself or others to the risk of drowning or river-related accidents during the prevailing monsoon season”.The DC directed the 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 this order shall be liable for action under the relevant provisions of the Disaster Management Act, 2005 and other applicable laws,” the order reads.The directive was issued in view of the rising water levels in the Brahmaputra and its tributaries flowing through Kamrup district due to continuous rainfall in the catchment areas.“The strong currents, sudden rise in water levels, riverbank erosion and submerged hazards pose a serious threat to human life and safety. 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 reads.The DC appealed to residents to exercise utmost caution and cooperate with the district administration in ensuring safety during the monsoon season.The order came into force with immediate effect and will remain in force until further notice.