Guwahati, September 9: Assam Environment Minister Jayanta Mallabaruah on Wednesday said the State Government is proposing a regulated mechanism for extracting silt from the Brahmaputra riverbed and exploring its potential use in infrastructure development, with the initiative also aimed at reducing illegal hill cutting and contributing to better flood management.
Speaking at the Curtain Raiser of the World Sustainable Development Summit (WSDS) 2027, organised by TERI at Gauhati University, Mallabaruah said the extremely fine nature of Brahmaputra silt currently limits its direct use as a construction material. The Government therefore intends to undertake scientific studies with institutions such as Gauhati University and TERI to examine ways of improving its bonding properties.
“We are proposing a regulated mechanism for extracting silt from the Brahmaputra riverbed for infrastructure development. Since riverbed silt is extremely fine, we need to undertake studies with institutions such as Gauhati University and TERI to develop and improve its bonding properties, so that it can be safely and effectively used in construction activities,” Mallabaruah said.
The Minister said that if scientifically proven suitable, riverbed silt could provide an alternative construction material and help reduce illegal hill cutting for sand. At the same time, regulated extraction could potentially improve the Brahmaputra’s carrying capacity and complement broader flood-management efforts.
Mallabaruah said the proposal reflects the Government’s larger approach of balancing Assam’s rapid growth and industrialisation with environmental responsibility.
He emphasised that development and environmental sustainability must progress together, particularly as challenges associated with climate change become increasingly significant.
The Minister also sought the expertise and guidance of TERI and other specialists in identifying sustainable pathways for Assam’s future development.
“Assam must progress along the path of development and industrialisation, but at the same time, we must ensure that the world is preserved beautifully for future generations. Sustainable development is therefore extremely essential for us,” Mallabaruah said.