Guwahati: Due to heavy and incessant rains in the hills of Arunachal Pradesh and Dhemaji, Lakhimpur districts of Assam, the flood situation in the Northern Assam region worsened in the last couple of days.
On account of excessive rainfall of more than 110 mm in and around Dhemaji district of Assam, and subsequent flooding and bank erosion affecting the railway bridge between Archipathar and Simen Chapari stations. The train service on the affected route has been suspended, causing a cancellation of service to some parts of Nagaland. This bridge, constructed in 1965 and later converted to broad gauge, was in good and safe condition, but due to the washing away of a large portion of the riverbank during the heavy rains, one of its piers became unstable.
There is no damage to any train or any injury to any person. This is a low-traffic branch line, and all traffic was already stopped beforehand due to the heavy flooding of the river. Movement of trains on the route between Murkongselek and Silapathar under the Tinsukia division will remain suspended until further notice.
Trains on this route will be short-terminated and originate from Silapathar. Arrangement of buses is being made for transporting willing passengers from Murkongselek to Silapathar.
Help desks have already been opened at Dhemaji, Silapathar and Murkongselek stations for providing all necessary assistance to passengers. The situation is being monitored closely by NF Railway authorities in collaboration with district and state government authorities.
Indian Army joins hands in flood rescue ops
To demonstrate its unwavering commitment towards humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, troops of the Indian Army Spear Head Division under Spear Corps actively participated in flood rescue operations in coordination with the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and the Civil Administration during the recent floods that affected parts of the region.
Responding swiftly to the emergent situation caused by incessant rainfall and rising water levels, Army personnel mobilised immediately to support ongoing rescue efforts. Operating under challenging weather and terrain conditions, the troops played a vital role in locating and safely evacuating 27 stranded civilians from inundated areas to safer locations.
The operation showcased the high level of preparedness, discipline and dedication of the Indian Army in extending timely assistance to the civil populace during natural calamities. Working shoulder to shoulder with the NDRF and civil authorities, the rescue teams ensured that the affected civilians received immediate relief and were moved out of danger in a coordinated and efficient manner.
Beyond its primary mandate of safeguarding the nation’s borders, the Indian Army Indian Army continues to remain a pillar of strength for the people during emergencies, embodying the spirit of service, resilience and compassion. Such humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations reinforce the Army’s enduring bond with the citizens and its readiness to respond whenever the nation calls.
“Service knows no boundaries; humanity remains their highest duty”, reads a statement released by PRO Defence Col. Mahendra Rawat.
