Assam Floods Worsen: 7 Lakh Affected, Death Toll Climbs to 19

The flood crisis in Assam has intensified, affecting nearly 7 lakh people across 21 districts. The death toll has risen to 19, with two additional fatalities reported on Wednesday. One person remains missing in Cachar district, as rescue operations continue.

Nine major rivers, including the Brahmaputra, are flowing above the danger level at multiple locations. The Barak River and its tributaries are also experiencing rising water levels, leading to further inundation.

The floods have impacted 1,494 villages across 66 revenue circles, with the worst-hit areas including:

  • Hailakandi – 1,72,439 affected people
  • Nagaon – 1,02,716 affected people

Additionally, 14,977 hectares of cropland are submerged, and over 5,15,737 animals have been affected by the disaster.

Relief Efforts & Infrastructure Damage

Authorities have set up 405 relief camps, sheltering 41,317 displaced individuals. Additionally, 1,12,324 relief distribution centers have been established to provide essential supplies.

Floodwaters have caused significant damage to:

  • Roads & bridges
  • Educational institutions & Anganwadi centers
  • Electricity poles & railway tracks

Train services in southern Assam have been disrupted due to waterlogging and rising water levels on railway tracks, particularly in Silchar. While long-distance trains continue to operate, short-distance passenger trains have been canceled.

Weather Forecast & Future Concerns

The Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC) in Guwahati has predicted heavy to very heavy rainfall in isolated areas, further worsening the situation. Districts such as Dhubri, South Salmara-Mankachar, Goalpara, and Kokrajhar are expected to experience thunderstorms with lightning and gusty winds reaching speeds of 30-40 kmph.

Government Response & Assistance

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has visited several flood-affected areas to assess the situation. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah have assured central government support for relief efforts.

Meanwhile, Assam Congress President Gaurav Gogoi has visited flood-hit regions in Cachar district, highlighting the urgent need for disaster management and rehabilitation.