Guwahati, the capital city of Assam, faced major disruptions on Tuesday after relentless overnight rainfall triggered severe flooding across several areas. Roads turned into rivers and homes were submerged, forcing the closure of schools and leaving many vehicles, including ambulances, stranded in waterlogged streets. Localities like Zoo Road, Ganeshguri, Hatigaon, and Chandmari were among the worst hit, with residents seen wading through knee- to chest-deep water. Power outages added to the woes, and traffic congestion crippled movement across the city.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) recorded 112.5 mm of rainfall in Guwahati on May 20 and warned of heavier downpours over the next two to three days, especially in the western and southern regions of Assam. This has raised alarm about increased waterlogging, traffic disruptions, and potential landslides in hilly zones. Emergency response teams have been placed on alert, and officials are urging people—especially those in low-lying or slope-prone areas—to stay indoors and follow official advisories closely.

Housing and Urban Affairs Minister Jayanta Malla Baruah, who visited some affected areas on a two-wheeler, blamed excess water runoff from Meghalaya hills for worsening the situation. He criticized ongoing construction activities by the University of Science and Technology Meghalaya (USTM), accusing them of “flood jihad” by allegedly cutting hills irresponsibly. This flood crisis has reignited criticism of Guwahati’s inadequate drainage infrastructure, with many recalling last year’s Gauhati High Court censure of the state government for neglecting the waterlogging issue.