Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Monday delivered a stark assessment of the recent flood devastation in Sivasagar and Charaideo districts, stating that the actual damage on the ground far surpasses what is being depicted on television. His remarks came following a direct inspection of the worst-hit areas, underscoring the severe impact of the recent deluge on local communities.
During his visit to Nepali Khutia village in Sivasagar district, one of the areas most severely affected by the floodwaters, Chief Minister Sarma observed the extensive destruction firsthand. He noted that the scale of damage was so profound that several villages might necessitate a complete rebuilding effort by the government, rather than mere rehabilitation.
Traveling by tractor to navigate the inundated and damaged terrains, the Chief Minister emphasized that simply distributing relief materials would be insufficient to address the comprehensive needs of the affected population. He specifically identified Bihubor, Nepali Khutia, Betbari, and Nimaijan villages as locations where complete reconstruction might be imperative, highlighting the long-term challenges faced by residents in these areas.
The Chief Minister's assessment provides a critical insight into the ground reality in these flood-ravaged parts of Upper Assam, suggesting a much graver situation than what might be perceived from distant reports. The government is now faced with the significant task of not just providing immediate aid but also planning for extensive, long-term reconstruction to help these communities recover fully.