Assam sounds 'heavy rains' alert in 4 districts

The Assam government today declared red alert in four districts following a warning of heavy rainfall in the next three-four days from the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD).
At a high-level meeting by Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi at his official residence, the government decided to issue red alert in Sonitpur, North Lakhimpur, Golaghat and Barpeta.
"Red alert has been sounded in four districts of Assam following a report from the IMD that there might be rainfall of 488 mm in the next 3-4 days," an official release said.
Gogoi discussed the continuing flood and erosion problem with Water Resources Minister Rajib Lochan Pegu and officials of departments concerned, and directed them to take all precautionary measures.

He also asked the concerned to move the people living near the river banks to safer places.
Meanwhile, the deputy commissioners of the four districts have been asked to make all-out preparations to meet any kind of eventuality, the statement said.
Gogoi asked the Water Resources department to take up emergency protection works on a war footing.
"As a long term measure, the Chief Minister asked the department to make a thorough study of the erosion problem and to rope in experts," it added.