Staff Reporter, Lakhimpur: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has called for a thorough investigation into the role of the North Eastern Electric Power Corporation Limited (NEEPCO) in the recent flooding that devastated parts of Lakhimpur district. The disaster, triggered by the sudden release of water from NEEPCO’s Panyor Hydro Electric Plant, has left two people dead and affected 243 villages. Speaking to the media after visiting the flood-affected areas on Monday, Sarma said, “I spoke with NEEPCO officials at the airport. If they are found responsible, they must provide a proper explanation. This cannot be taken lightly.” The Chief Minister directed authorities to strictly follow standard operating procedures (SOPs) for water release from reservoirs to avoid future disasters. He also announced immediate repair work on the breached Amtola embankment, which was submerged during the flood. “Repair work will begin tomorrow, and after the monsoon ends, permanent restoration will be carried out,” he said. Reaffirming the government’s commitment to rehabilitation, Sarma assured that all affected families would receive support. “Whether it’s a house, livestock, or fishery loss—we will help. The government stands firmly with the people,” he added. Accompanying the Chief Minister were Water Resources Minister Pijush Hazarika and Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Keshab Mahanta. Earlier, Education Minister Ranoj Pegu and local MLA Manab Deka had been sent to assess the ground situation. Among the hardest-hit areas are No. 1 Dejo Pathar, Pachnoi, Na Bhagania, and Deobil, where families fled in panic as rising waters swept away homes and food supplies. With public anger mounting, calls for accountability and better flood management are growing louder.
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