Assam flood situation worsens; one more dead, over 4 lakh affected

Digital Desk: The flood situation in Assam has taken a turn for the worse, with the loss of another life reported on Thursday, bringing the total casualties this year to 36 due to floods, landslides, and storms. According to the latest bulletin from the Assam State Disaster Management Authority (ASDMA), the situation remains grim, affecting over 4 lakh people across 19 districts.

Udalguri district recorded the latest fatality, where one person drowned in the Khairabari area. The most severely impacted districts include Karimganj, where more than 2.5 lakh individuals are affected, followed by Darrang with 53,500, and Tamulpur with 23,000 affected residents.

Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma emphasized the severity of the situation, noting that many tributaries of the Brahmaputra River are flowing above the danger level. Fortunately, the Brahmaputra itself has not breached its danger mark yet, offering a slight respite.

"The flood situation is slightly alarming now as many tributaries of Brahmaputra are flowing above the danger level. The good thing is Brahmaputra has not crossed the danger level yet," Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma told reporters at Tezpur.

Sarma also highlighted the challenges faced by affected communities, stressing that while the flooding has not spread extensively, those affected are enduring significant hardships. The state government is currently managing the crisis independently, with sufficient funds allocated for relief efforts.

"The flood situation is slightly alarming now as many tributaries of Brahmaputra are flowing above the danger level. The good thing is Brahmaputra has not crossed the danger level yet," Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma told reporters at Tezpur.

The ASDMA reported operational 105 relief camps and 78 distribution centers, providing shelter, food, and essential supplies to those displaced by the floods. In the past 24 hours alone, relief efforts have distributed substantial quantities of rice, dal, salt, and mustard oil to affected populations.

Additionally, extensive damage to infrastructure including embankments, roads, bridges, and crop areas has been reported across multiple districts. At present, 1,311 villages are submerged, and approximately 6,424.83 hectares of crops have been destroyed.

With several rivers like Kopili, Katakhal, Barak, and Kushiyara flowing above the danger mark, the situation remains precarious. The authorities continue to monitor and respond to the evolving crisis, urging for a cessation of rains to mitigate further escalation.

As Assam battles these challenges, coordinated efforts from both state and central authorities remain crucial in providing relief and rehabilitation to those affected, ensuring their safety and well-being amidst this natural calamity.