Assam CM says rehab top priority as flood situation improves, toll rises to 82

Assam's chief minister, Himanta Biswa Sarma, declared that rehabilitation and restoration are the government's top priorities as the flood situation in the state gradually improves. Affected residents are beginning to return to their homes, but the path to recovery presents significant challenges.

While floodwaters are receding across many areas, the human toll has tragically climbed to 82 deaths, with the Assam State Disaster Management Authority (ASDMA) reporting over two lakh people still affected. Despite the receding waters, many remain in relief camps, awaiting assistance.

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We are releasing immediate amounts for repair work in damaged schools, Anganwadi offices and Naam Ghars, as the first step, and from August 7, we’ll start a comprehensive damage assessment.

Chief Minister Sarma outlined a comprehensive recovery plan, focusing on immediate relief, compensation, and the long-term restoration of livelihoods. The government is prioritizing the repair of damaged schools, Anganwadi offices, and Naam Ghars, with a budget of ₹2 lakh for affected schools in Sivasagar and Charaideo, and ₹2.5 lakh for Anganwadi offices. A thorough damage assessment will commence on August 7.

Education is a key focus, with plans to reopen nearly 550 affected schools by August 10. The state will also waive electricity bills for July and property taxes for the entire year in flood-hit districts. Furthermore, Sarma engaged with 46 insurance companies to expedite claims for damaged vehicles, livestock, and other insured assets, with insurers agreeing to accept government lists in cases where original death certificates were lost in the floods.

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We will ensure that those who have insurance policies do not face any difficulties or negligence in the settlement of their claims. In case of deaths, the companies will accept the government’s official lists instead of death certificates.