GUWAHATI: As problems of artificial floods and water-logging continue to harass the people of Guwahati city, the cause of these problems are not far to seek. The occupation of the city’s wetlands— the reservoir of rain waters, have not just disturbed the ecology of the area but have also increased the woes of the common people here in the heart of the city, who are forced to tread in the sludge that submerges most part of the city, during a brief spell of rain.

The encroachment of these wetlands is not a new issue. Innumerable complaints have been filed, order of eviction have been passed and assurances have been given by the government to protect the wetlands. However, at the end of the day, the efforts are nullified by the lack of action from the district administration, who despite being fully aware of the encroachment have failed to step up its boots to evict them.