The flood situation in Assam has reached a critical level as incessant rains continue to wreak havoc across the state. The Assam State Disaster Management Authority (ASDMA) has reported that 1,61,209 people have been affected by the floodwaters, and the death toll has tragically risen to 26, with the latest fatality reported in Hailakandi district. The unrelenting rains over the past 24 hours have impacted 470 villages in 28 revenue circles across 15 districts, exacerbating the already dire situation.
Districts Severely Affected
Karimganj has emerged as the worst-hit district, with 1,52,133 people affected. Nagaon follows with 5,247 people impacted, while Kokrajhar has 900 people affected. Biswanath and Nalbari have also suffered significantly, with 818 and 676 people affected, respectively. The flooding has further extended to other districts including Lakhimpur, Hojai, Bongaigaon, Tamulpur, Udalguri, Darrang, Dhemaji, Goalpara, and Chirang, illustrating the widespread nature of this disaster.
River Levels and Shelter Arrangements
The Kopili River in Kampur, Nagaon district, is currently flowing above the danger level, heightening the risk for surrounding areas. Approximately 5,114 people are taking refuge in 27 relief camps in Karimganj, while 17,935 non-camp inmates are being housed at relief distribution centers in Hailakandi and Karimganj districts. In addition to human displacement, the floods have affected 93,895 animals, adding another layer of complexity to the relief efforts.
Extensive Infrastructure Damage
The floods have caused significant damage to the region’s infrastructure. Reports indicate eight incidents of road damage across Biswanath, Darrang, Lakhimpur, Tamulpur, and Udalguri districts. Additionally, two embankments have breached in Lakhimpur, and five embankment damage incidents have been recorded in Biswanath.
Urban Flooding Challenges
Urban areas have not been spared from the devastating effects of the floods. In Kokrajhar, urban flooding has affected 532 people. In Kamrup, parts of North Guwahati experienced severe waterlogging, particularly in Wards 4, 5, and 6. Kamrup (Metro) has seen significant flooding in areas such as Bamunimaidam, Chandmari, Anuradha, and Gandhi Basti in Guwahati. Dispur has faced extensive waterlogging in localities including Sijubari, Hatigaon, Wireless, Greenland Path, Saneki Path, Rukminigaon Manasha Mandir Path, Kahilipara near SBI, Sagaon Patharquary Main Road, Anil Nagar, Nabin Nagar, Tarun Nagar, Byelane No-09 Rupkonwar Path, and Byelane No-03 Sahid Dilip Huzuri Path. Azara has also reported waterlogging at Natun Basti and Daharapur Chowk due to the heavy downpour on June 18, 2024.
Relief Operations Underway
As the state continues to struggle with the rising waters, relief operations are in full swing to assist those affected. The ASDMA, along with various government and non-governmental organizations, is working tirelessly to provide shelter, food, and medical assistance to the displaced populations. Efforts are also being made to rescue stranded individuals and provide them with necessary aid.
Conclusion
The flood situation in Assam remains grim, with a large number of people affected and significant damage to infrastructure. The relentless rains have created a challenging scenario for relief and rescue operations. As the state braces for more rain, it is imperative that all possible measures are taken to mitigate the impact and provide relief to those affected by this natural calamity.
