A fresh spell of heavy rainfall brought daily life in Ledo town, Assam, to a grinding halt on June 3, 2025, as floodwaters submerged major roads and marketplaces. The incident has reignited long-standing frustrations among residents over the lack of permanent drainage infrastructure in this key coal mining town.
Key Areas Submerged, Businesses Suffer
The rains, which began early Tuesday morning, quickly led to the inundation of major commercial and transport hubs including Ledo Bazaar, the railway station approach road, and Ledo College Road. Within hours, floodwaters entered numerous shops and homes, forcing business owners to shut down operations and residents to stay indoors.
Local transport services were completely disrupted. Vehicles could not move through submerged roads, leaving several commuters stranded and commercial goods delivery delayed. Residents stated that even basic movement became impossible as water levels rose to dangerous heights in some pockets.
“This happens every year. Yet the administration acts surprised every time,” said a local trader from Ledo Bazaar, standing knee-deep in water outside his shuttered shop.
Drainage Woes Continue Unchecked
The latest flooding has once again exposed the poor urban planning and lack of functional drainage systems in Ledo. Despite repeated warnings and requests, no comprehensive solution has been implemented over the years, residents claimed.
The problem is especially concerning for Ledo given its importance as a coal town in Upper Assam. Situated in the 83rd Margherita Assembly Constituency, Ledo is a hub for transportation, trade, and mining-related activities. Yet its infrastructure continues to lag behind.
Anger Mounts Against Local Leaders
The recurring nature of this crisis has led to growing anger against local leadership. Residents directly blamed the Ledo Gaon Panchayat and Margherita MLA Bhaskar Sharma for the negligence.
“We are not asking for miracles. We want proper drains, regular cleaning, and timely response during rains,” said a school teacher from Ledo College Road, who was unable to reach work due to the flooding.
Residents also accused local officials of making promises year after year without delivering tangible results. Further, while small-scale patchwork projects have been attempted, none have succeeded in preventing the annual flooding that paralyzes the town.
Demand for Permanent Solutions
Civic groups and local shopkeepers’ associations are now calling for the state government and district administration to undertake a permanent drainage project in Ledo. Moreover, they have urged authorities to conduct a full topographical survey and implement a scientific drainage plan that accommodates the region’s rainfall pattern and urban layout.
Some residents also called for a public consultation to hold local elected representatives accountable for their inaction.
Broader Impact on Public Health and Economy
Beyond immediate disruption, the flooding is raising serious concerns about public health. Stagnant water around homes and shops increases the risk of vector-borne diseases such as dengue and malaria. Also, with monsoon season approaching, there is rising fear of a health crisis if proper drainage and cleanup aren’t ensured.
Economically, Ledo’s small businesses are already reeling. Shop owners reported heavy losses in inventory and customer traffic. Besides, rickshaw pullers, delivery workers, and daily-wage earners were among the worst hit as work halted abruptly.
Looking Ahead
Unless immediate action is taken, Ledo may continue to face similar or even worse conditions in the future. Local leaders must step beyond hollow assurances and initiate a long-term infrastructure overhaul before the town suffers irreversible damage.
For more updates on flood-related developments in Assam, read:
Assam Minister Ashok Singhal Reviews Flood Relief in Goalpara, Biswanath
Also check:
Why Assam’s Drainage Systems Need a Major Upgrade
A Call for Civic Action
Residents, civil bodies, and businesses in Ledo must continue raising their voice collectively. A united front demanding change is the only way to push authorities to implement effective, long-term drainage solutions. The Ledo flood drainage crisis cannot be ignored any longer—it’s time for real accountability and action.