Anti-erosion project launched in Dhemaji to protect Jonai villages

Dibrugarh: Lakhimpur MP Pradan Baruah and Jonai MLA Bhubon Pegu on Monday officially launched a Rs 89.6 crore erosion-protection project, along the Depi river, at Milanpur village No. 1 in Dhemaji.
The project, to be implemented by the Dhemaji-Jonai soil conservation division, will address the perennial problem of erosion that has plagued several villages in the area, causing extensive damage to homes and agricultural land, while leading to displacement of numerous families.
"For years, the people of Milanpur and its surrounding villages have suffered due to the Depi river's erosion. This project marks a turning point in our fight against it. The govt is committed to ensuring that families should no longer live in fear of losing their homes and land," Baruah said.
The erosion protection scheme will employ reinforced concrete cement (RCC) porcupines — a cost-effective and durable method to break water flow and reduce soil displacement — along with other engineering solutions to counter erosion. Authorities have set a June deadline to complete the work before the onset of monsoon.
Pegu said, "This is a historic moment for our people who have endured the wrath of the Depi for generations. The measures to combat erosion will finally bring lasting relief to the affected people. Once completed, this initiative will not only protect homes and farmland, but will also restore confidence among our people, who live in constant fear during the monsoon."
Besides controlling the erosion, the project is expected to boost agricultural productivity. "The project will utilise RCC porcupines. These structures are designed to reduce the river's velocity and trap sediment, gradually stabilising the riverbanks. Stabilising the riverbank will not only save homes, but also restore fertile land, which is crucial for our rural economy," Pegu said.