ADB and Government of India Sign $200 Million Loan for Brahmaputra River Project

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved a $200 million loan to enhance flood and riverbank erosion risk management along the Brahmaputra River in Assam, India. This project aims to build on previous successful initiatives and address the persistent challenges of flooding and erosion in the region.

Project Objectives

1. Strengthening Risk Management:

• Implementing a holistic and integrated approach to enhance flood and riverbank erosion risk management.
• Focusing on long-term planning and intensifying support for climate and disaster resilience.

2. Benefiting Communities:

• Empowering women through disaster-resilient economic activities.
• Benefitting approximately 1 million people and increasing crop production over 50,000 hectares.

3. Infrastructure Development:

• Stabilizing 60 km of riverbanks and installing 32 km of pro-siltation measures.
• Building 4 km of climate-resilient flood embankments in priority districts.

Implementation Strategy

1. Project Leadership and Coordination:

• The Flood and River Erosion Management Agency of Assam will lead, manage, and coordinate project activities.

2. Implementing Agencies:

• The Water Resources Department of the Government of Assam will oversee project implementation.
• The Assam Agroforestry Development Board will focus on nature-based solutions.

3. Partnership:

• Collaboration with the Brahmaputra Board, Assam State Disaster Management Authority, and Assam Inland Water Transport Development Society for effective implementation.

Institutional Strengthening

1. Advanced Techniques:

• Enhancing institutional capacity in flood forecasting, erosion modeling, and asset management.
• Implementing modern surveys, flood risk mapping, and land use planning.

2. Nature-Based Solutions:

• Piloting nature-based solutions and the graduation approach to mitigate flood and erosion risks.