Guwahati: Torrential overnight rainfall caused massive disruption across Guwahati on Monday, leading to widespread flooding, traffic paralysis, and loss of life. At least one person was reported dead as several parts of the city remained submerged under water.
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the city recorded 117.4 mm of rainfall in just 24 hours—the highest ever for a single day in April since 1951. The previous record of 116.5 mm was set in 2004. Some areas witnessed even more intense rainfall, with Khanapara’s SIRD Complex recording 215.9 mm, Gauhati University 134 mm, and the city ARG station 126.5 mm.
In a tragic incident, a woman identified as Payel Nath lost her life after reportedly slipping into an open drain in the Maligaon area on Sunday night. Rescue teams from Guwahati City Police and the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) later recovered her body nearly 150 metres from the spot where she fell.
Continuous rainfall through Sunday night and early Monday left several areas severely waterlogged. Major localities affected include Maligaon, Rukminigaon, Rukmini Nagar, Survey-Wireless, Anil Nagar, VIP Road, Jorabat, Rajgarh, Hatigaon, and Zoo Road. In many places, water levels reportedly rose up to chest height, causing immense hardship to residents and disrupting daily life.
In view of the situation, the Kamrup (Metro) district administration ordered the closure of all government and private educational institutions under the Guwahati Municipal Corporation area on Monday to ensure public safety.
Authorities have placed emergency response systems on high alert. The Assam State Disaster Management Authority has urged residents to remain cautious and avoid unnecessary travel during heavy rainfall.
The IMD has forecast continued bad weather over Assam for the next two to three days, with heavy to very heavy rainfall expected in several parts. Thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds reaching speeds of 40–50 km/h are also likely.
Officials have advised people, especially those living in low-lying and hillside areas, to stay vigilant for possible flooding and landslides. Commuters have been asked to plan travel carefully and avoid venturing out during intense rain.
The situation continues to be closely monitored by city authorities as Guwahati grapples with one of its heaviest April rainfalls in recent history.
