Guwahati: The flood situation in Assam has deteriorated, affecting over 2.96 lakh people across 19 districts. As the floodwaters continue to rise, another casualty has been reported, bringing the total death toll to 35 since May 28, according to official sources. Additionally, over 2.53 lakh domestic animals have been impacted by the first wave of flooding.
Severe Impact in Karimganj
Karimganj is experiencing the most severe impact, with 1,52,133 individuals affected by the flooding. Overall, 470 villages across 24 revenue circles are currently submerged. The floods have also caused significant damage to embankments, roads, bridges, and other infrastructure in several districts.
Rising Water Levels and Affected Districts
The Kopili River at Kampur has risen above the danger mark, exacerbating the flood situation. The affected districts include Biswanath, Lakhimpur, Hojai, Bongaigaon, Nalbari, Tamulpur, Udalguri, Darrang, Dhemaji, Hailakandi, Karimganj, Goalpara, Nagaon, Chirang, and Kokrajhar.
Government Response and Relief Measures
In response to the crisis, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma chaired a cabinet meeting on June 19 to discuss relief and rehabilitation measures for the affected districts. Following the meeting, Minister Dr. Ranuj Pegu assured the media that the state government is prepared to tackle the current flood situation. Authorities have opened hundreds of relief camps across the state, providing shelter to over 13,000 flood-affected individuals.
The meteorological department has issued an alert for heavy rain in several districts over the next four days, potentially worsening the flood situation.
The floods in Assam have caused significant infrastructure damage, with 29 incidents of road damage reported across the districts of Barpeta, Biswanath, Bongaigaon, Darrang, Nalbari, South Salmara, and Udalguri. Additionally, one bridge in Barpeta district has been compromised, and several embankments in Tamulpur, Darrang, and Bongaigaon have been damaged or breached. Urban flooding has further impacted 21 villages in the districts of Kokrajhar, Kamrup, Cachar, Kamrup (M), and Nalbari, exacerbating the challenges faced by residents in these areas.
