Guwahati, June 23, 2024 – The flood nightmare in Assam continues to wreak havoc, with the death toll reaching 29 as floodwaters persist in devastating lives and livelihoods across the state. The Assam State Disaster Management Authority (ASDMA) reported two more tragic deaths, including that of a minor, in Barpeta District, highlighting the relentless impact of the flooding.
The current situation remains dire, even as the number of affected people has decreased from 3,90,491 to 2,63,452. The floods have spread chaos across 1,027 villages in 16 districts, including Barpeta, Kamrup, Bajali, Goalpara, Nagaon, Hojai, Udalguri, Karimganj, Darrang, Nalbari, Kamrup (M), Cachar, Sonitpur, Tamulpur, Karbi Anlong, and Bongaigaon.
Worst-Hit Districts in the Flood
Karimganj District is the most severely affected, with 1,39,989 people struggling under the deluge. Darrang follows with 56,863 affected individuals, while Cachar and Barpeta have 30,343 and 12,748 affected people, respectively. The floodwaters have not spared any area, leaving a trail of destruction in their wake.
Agricultural and Animal Impact
The floods have decimated around 3,995.33 hectares of crop area, severely impacting the agricultural sector, which is the backbone of the state’s economy. Furthermore, approximately 2,20,546 animals across nine districts are suffering due to the floodwaters, exacerbating the crisis for farmers and villagers dependent on livestock for their livelihood.
Relief Efforts
In response to the ongoing crisis, the state has established 228 relief camps in 11 flood-affected districts, sheltering a total of 17,661 people, including 5,737 women and 5,175 children. Additionally, 75,562 non-camp inmates are taking refuge in Relief Distribution Centers in four districts. Notably, 54 people were evacuated by boats in Kamrup District, showcasing the relentless efforts of the rescue teams.
Infrastructure Damage
The floods have caused significant damage to infrastructure, with 69 incidents of road damage reported across various districts. Bajali has reported two incidents, Barpeta 10, Bongaigaon 16, Darrang six, Goalpara nine, Kamrup 16, Nalbari eight, and Udalguri two. Additionally, there have been seven incidents of bridge damage reported in Bongaigaon, Darrang, and Goalpara. Bajali District has also reported four incidents of embankment damage.
Urban flooding has severely impacted 152 people in Kamrup District, where 402 individuals are currently taking shelter in three relief camps in North Guwahati.
Rivers Above Danger Mark
The situation remains critical as the Kopili River at Dharamtul and the Kushiyara River at Karimganj continue to flow above the danger mark. The relentless rise in water levels has made rescue and relief operations challenging, putting immense pressure on state authorities and disaster management teams.
Government and Aid Efforts
State authorities, along with disaster management teams, are working tirelessly to provide relief and support to the affected populations. The resilience of the people of Assam, coupled with ongoing efforts from the government and aid organizations, will be crucial in overcoming this natural calamity. However, the road to recovery will be long and arduous, with thousands displaced and extensive damage to infrastructure and agriculture.
The Assam government has called for increased support and resources to tackle the crisis, urging citizens to come forward and assist in any way possible. The focus remains on ensuring the safety and well-being of those affected, with continuous efforts to restore normalcy in the flood-hit areas.
Conclusion
As Assam grapples with this devastating flood nightmare, the strength and resilience of its people, along with coordinated efforts from the government and aid agencies, will play a pivotal role in navigating through this challenging period. The state’s immediate priority is to provide relief to those in dire need, ensuring that essential services and support reach the affected communities promptly. The long-term goal involves a comprehensive rebuilding strategy to restore infrastructure, revitalize agriculture, and rehabilitate displaced individuals.
With relentless dedication, Assam aims to emerge stronger from this calamity, turning the crisis into an opportunity for reinforcing its disaster preparedness and resilience. The unity and determination of its citizens, combined with the steadfast support of national and international aid, will be crucial in charting a path toward recovery and renewed hope.
Also read: AASU CHIEF SLAMS CENTRE OVER NEET-NET IRREGULARITIES AMID NTA CONTROVERSY
