New power and irrigation deal
Assam Meghalaya Hydropower Deal for Flood Relief and Peace: Assam and Meghalaya are stepping into a new phase of cooperation. The two northeastern states have jointly planned a 55-megawatt hydropower and irrigation project. This is not just about power—it’s also aimed at controlling floods in Guwahati and resolving a long-pending border issue.
The decision was made public after a meeting between Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma and Meghalaya CM Conrad K. Sangma. The two leaders are determined to bring development and peace to their regions.
Focus on Kulsi River
The heart of the project is the Kulsi River, a tributary of the Brahmaputra. This river is ecologically important, serving as a nesting ground for the endangered Gangetic river dolphin, India’s National Aquatic Animal.
By tapping into this river, both states aim to generate electricity and boost irrigation. Assam, in particular, will benefit from improved irrigation. Local communities will be consulted to ensure their interests are not overlooked. This step shows that development is being paired with sensitivity to local needs and environment.
Tackling Guwahati’s flooding
Guwahati, one of the fastest-growing cities in the Northeast, has been facing urban flooding year after year. To get to the root of this, the two states are calling in experts.
The North Eastern Space Application Centre will do satellite-based mapping of the flood-prone zones. In addition, IIT Roorkee will help create effective mitigation plans. This approach uses science and data to make decisions, not just assumptions.
Progress on a 52-year-old dispute
The border between Assam and Meghalaya has been disputed for over five decades. But now, there’s real movement. Out of the 12 disputed sectors, agreement has been reached on six.
Plans are underway to place boundary pillars in five areas by August 15, India’s Independence Day. The states are also considering land adjustments, which means some villages or patches of land may officially switch sides to settle the matter peacefully.
A united leadership vision
What’s most promising is the spirit of collaboration. Instead of letting disputes drag on, the two Chief Ministers are working as a team. They’ve set a tone for cooperative governance, not just in water projects but in handling disasters and planning for the future.
This is a rare example of two Indian states sharing resources, planning together, and resolving differences—something that many other regions can learn from.
Looking ahead
If this project works, it could mean more than just electricity or flood relief. It could boost tourism, create jobs, and improve infrastructure in the border areas. And more importantly, it could build trust between the people of Assam and Meghalaya.
By working hand-in-hand, the two states are laying down a blueprint for interstate harmony and smart development.
Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table
| Topic | Details |
| Project Type | Hydropower and Irrigation |
| Capacity | 55 Megawatts |
| River Involved | Kulsi River, tributary of Brahmaputra |
| Ecological Note | Habitat for Gangetic Dolphin |
| Urban Focus | Flood relief in Guwahati |
| Tech Support | NESAC and IIT Roorkee |
| Border Dispute | 52 years old, progress on 6 out of 12 sectors |
| Key Date | Boundary pillars by August 15 |
| CM of Assam | Himanta Biswa Sarma |
| CM of Meghalaya | Conrad K. Sangma |
| National Aquatic Animal | Gangetic River Dolphin |
| Interstate Model | Example of Collaborative Federalism |
