Monsoon hampering businesses in Guwahati

Guwahati: The ongoing monsoon season has severely disrupted daily life and business activities in Guwahati, Assam, with residents facing significant challenges commuting, particularly those relying on two-wheeler vehicles. The heavy rainfall has also negatively impacted local food businesses, leading to a marked decline in customer turnout and revenue.

Epic Momos, a popular restaurant located in the Sixmile locality, has experienced a dramatic drop in business amid the rain. The owner revealed to Business North East that the continuous heavy rain has severely affected their outdoor dining business, resulting in a nearly 50 percent decrease in business over the past two weeks.

Similarly, a cafe owner in Christian Basti informed Business North East that their banner was damaged by the persistent rainfall. The owner told this platform, "However, we are concerned about the immediate repair of the banner, as there is the dander of electric shock during the wet conditions. This issue has contributed to a 50 percent decline in sales since the onset of the monsoon season."

He further added, "Due to rain, our regular customers are unable to visit the cafes close to their houses due to ongoing rainfall."

As the rains continue, businesses in Guwahati are struggling to adapt, with many hoping for a break in the weather to allow for repairs and a return to normal operations. According to IMD data from June 1, the northeast's monsoon has been inconsistent, with only Meghalaya experiencing extensive rainfall.

While areas of Assam and Tripura experienced excess rainfall, Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram, and Arunachal Pradesh are in the deficit category. 

Rainfall has been copious in Assam's western districts, as well as areas of the southern and eastern/upper regions. Meghalaya had the greatest variation from normal at 66 percent, receiving 710.4 mm of rain versus the typical 426.7 mm between June 1 and 19.

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