The World Bank has approved a loan of USD 108 million to assist Assam in improving disaster preparedness and flood forecasting.

According to a press release from the World Bank, the project will benefit approximately 6 million people and is part of Assam's larger USD 500 million investment programme.

By constructing green infrastructure in the Beki and Burhi Dihing river basins, the Assam Integrated eRiver Basin Management Project will help the state reduce its vulnerability to floods and river erosion, protecting approximately 100,000 people.

The project will also help strengthen the state's disaster response by improving flood forecasting and early warning systems, including mobile alerts.

According to the release, it will provide safer evacuation and shelter facilities, including access to climate-resilient flood shelters, to at least 10,000 people.

With upgraded state and district emergency operational centres, the project will also assist government agencies in responding faster during times of crisis.

"The floods of 2022 harmed millions of people in Assam. This project will build on Assam's disaster risk management approach, contributing to climate-resilient growth while protecting Assamese lives and property," said Auguste Tano Kouame, World Bank Country Director for India.

Flooding, riverbank erosion, sedimentation, and biodiversity loss have significant economic and environmental consequences for the state, resulting in the loss of livelihoods for its people.

According to the World Bank, the government of Assam expects an increase in extreme rainfall events of 5-35 per cent and an increase in flood events of more than 25 per cent as a result of climate change.

The USD 108 million loans from the World Bank's International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD) have an 11.5-year maturity and a 4-year grace period.

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