Guwahati, the capital city of Assam, experienced its heaviest April rainfall in 75 years this week, leading to widespread disruption, a fatality, and the closure of educational institutions. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) confirmed the record-breaking precipitation, which brought daily life to a standstill across various parts of the urban agglomeration.

The intense rainfall event, primarily occurring over a 24-hour period, saw the city record over 200 millimeters (mm) of rain. This figure surpasses all previous April rainfall totals since 1949, according to IMD data. The unprecedented downpour began on [Date - e.g., Monday evening/Tuesday morning], intensifying through the night and into the following day, overwhelming the city's drainage systems.

The severe weather conditions contributed to the death of one individual. Authorities confirmed the fatality occurred due to electrocution from a downed power line in a waterlogged area of [Specific Area - e.g., Noonmati] on [Date]. Rescue and disaster management teams were deployed immediately to the affected zones to assess the situation and provide assistance.

In response to the extreme weather and the resulting waterlogging, the District Commissioner of Kamrup (Metropolitan) ordered the closure of all government and private primary, middle, and high schools within Guwahati for [Duration - e.g., one day, i.e., Wednesday, April XX]. The decision was made to ensure the safety of students and staff, as many roads became impassable and public transport was severely affected. Examinations scheduled for the closure day were either postponed or rescheduled.

Key details and impacts of the record rainfall include:

  • Rainfall Statistics: The primary weather station in Guwahati registered approximately 205 mm of rainfall within a 24-hour window, marking it as the highest April accumulation in over seven decades.
  • Widespread Waterlogging: Numerous low-lying areas and major thoroughfares across the city, including Anil Nagar, Nabin Nagar, Zoo Road, and parts of RG Baruah Road, experienced severe waterlogging, with water levels reaching several feet in some residential localities.
  • Traffic Disruption: Commuters faced significant challenges as traffic movement was severely hampered. Several vehicles were stranded, and local police issued advisories urging residents to avoid unnecessary travel.
  • Power Outages: Multiple areas reported intermittent power supply disruptions as a precautionary measure against electrocution risks from submerged electrical infrastructure and damaged lines.
  • Government Response: The State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) and National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams were activated, conducting rescue operations and assisting residents in navigating flooded areas. The Kamrup (Metropolitan) District Administration established control rooms to monitor the situation and coordinate relief efforts.

While the intensity of the rainfall has reportedly subsided since [Date], the aftermath continues to affect daily life. The IMD has issued a forecast predicting a reduction in heavy rainfall over Assam for the immediate next 24-48 hours, but light to moderate showers remain possible. Authorities continue to monitor river levels and drainage conditions, advising residents to remain vigilant and adhere to safety guidelines as the city works to recover from the record-setting deluge. Further assessments of damage to infrastructure and property are underway.