Assam Floods Update:139 Dead, Over 4 Lakh Affected

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Assam Floods: State Disaster Management Authority Reports Alarming Figures

The ongoing floods in Assam have taken a devastating toll, with the death toll surging to 139, leaving over 4 lakh people grappling with the aftermath across 28 districts of the state. This dire situation, as reported by the Assam State Disaster Management Authority (ASDMA) on Tuesday, has prompted swift action and assistance efforts.

Worst-Hit Districts

Cachar, Dibrugarh, Hojai, Nagaon, and Sonitpur Face Severe Flooding

Among the districts bearing the brunt of the floods, Cachar, Dibrugarh, Hojai, Nagaon, and Sonitpur have been the worst affected. The perilous rise in water levels of the Brahmaputra, Beki, Kopili, Barak, and Kushiyara rivers has also sounded alarms, surpassing danger marks at various locations.

Widespread Impact

Millions Affected, Relief Camps, and Crop Loss

The ASDMA’s data reveals the staggering extent of the crisis, with 24.92 lakh people directly impacted by the floods. To provide refuge for those in need, 199 relief camps have been set up, accommodating 1.76 lakh individuals. Additionally, the floods have wreaked havoc on homes, damaging 2,620 houses, and causing agricultural losses estimated at a whopping Rs 1,080 crore.

Government Response

NDRF and SDRF Deployed, Relief Measures Initiated

In response to the disaster, the Assam government has taken action by deploying teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF). These teams are actively engaged in rescue and relief operations. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has issued directives to district administrations, emphasizing the importance of extending all necessary assistance to those affected. In a gesture of compassion, he has also announced an ex-gratia of Rs 4 lakh for the families who have lost their loved ones due to the floods.

Disruption of Normal Life

Schools and Roads Affected, Weather Woes Loom

The floodwaters have disrupted the routine lives of residents in the affected areas. Schools and colleges have been forced to close, and traffic on several roads has been severely impacted. Adding to the concerns, the weather office has forecasted heavy rainfall in Assam and Meghalaya for the coming days, which threatens to exacerbate the already dire flood situation.

Safety First

Government’s Appeal to Stay Away from Water Bodies

As a precautionary measure, the Assam government has urged the populace to exercise caution and refrain from approaching the banks of rivers and other water bodies. Safety remains paramount in these trying times, and collective efforts are underway to provide aid and relief to those enduring the brunt of the Assam floods.

In summary, the floods in Assam have reached alarming proportions, affecting millions of lives and causing significant damage. The government, alongside disaster response teams, is actively working to mitigate the crisis and provide assistance to those in need. The state remains on high alert as heavy rainfall looms in the forecast, underscoring the urgency of the situation.