Staff Reporter, Guwahati: Ferry operations between Guwahati and North Guwahati were temporarily suspended on Friday as continuous heavy rainfall and stormy conditions swept across the region. The Inland Water Transport (IWT) Department halted services as a safety measure, citing deteriorating weather conditions brought on by the advancing monsoon. Jayanta Gogoi, an engineer with the IWT Department, confirmed the development, stating, “Ferry services will remain suspended until weather conditions improve and it is safe to resume operations.” In the interim, commuters have been advised to opt for alternative transport routes. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for Assam until May 31, as a deep depression over the northwest Bay of Bengal intensifies, triggering widespread rainfall and squally winds ranging from 40 to 60 kmph. Monsoon rains have affected several districts, with Dhubri, Goalpara, Kokrajhar, Hailakandi, Cachar, and Dima Hasao facing warnings of extremely heavy rainfall. The IMD has also cautioned about the risk of flash floods, landslides, uprooted trees, and power outages, particularly in vulnerable areas. Overnight downpours have already resulted in severe waterlogging across many parts of Guwahati, disrupting daily life. The Assam State Disaster Management Authority (ASDMA) has issued advisories urging residents to exercise caution and be prepared for worsening conditions. In a statement, ASDMA warned that continued heavy rains could lead to flooding, road blockages, tree falls, and localized landslides, especially in low-lying and hilly regions. Emergency response teams are on high alert, and city officials are actively monitoring the situation to ensure timely intervention. Travelers and daily commuters have been urged to avoid unnecessary travel, plan their routes carefully, and remain indoors during periods of intense rainfall. The public has also been asked to stay away from waterlogged zones and unstable slopes prone to landslides. With the monsoon making an early and intense impact, authorities remain on standby, working to mitigate disruption and ensure public safety until conditions stabilize.
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