N Assam
Nagaland CM Denies Link Between Dikhu Hydro Project and Upper Assam Floods
- Project Remains Strictly on Paper
Nagaland Chief Minister Dr. Neiphiu Rio has formally dismissed claims linking the recent devastating floods in Sivasagar and Charaideo to the Dikhu Hydroelectric Project, clarifying that the plant is not yet operational. In an official letter addressed to the Chief Minister of Assam, Rio emphasized that the proposed project—a small-scale ~24 MW development along the upper stretch of the Dikhu River—is currently undergoing initial feasibility studies and remains strictly in its primary planning stage.
- Allegations Deemed Unfounded
The official response addresses political commentary, press releases, and social media posts circulated by Raijor Dal MLA Akhil Gogoi, opposition leaders, and digital influencers. The narratives accused the project of discharging vast quantities of water without prior warning. Labelling these claims groundless, Rio warned that unverified statements sow unnecessary panic among citizens and risk straining the historical ties and inter-state trust between Assam and Nagaland.
- Natural Disaster, Not Man-Made Discharge
Attributing the regional inundation across districts—including Mon and Mokokchung in Nagaland—strictly to severe seasonal rainfall and natural climate hazards, the Nagaland government called for responsible public discourse grounded in factual assessments.
For additional context on how flooding and landslides in Nagaland impact downstream regions like Sivasagar, watch this news report on the Dikhow River Situation, which illustrates how natural landslips upstream affect river flow into Assam.
