Assam flood situation remains grim as 41 killed so far, over 727k affected
Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- The flood situation in Assam, India, has worsened, with 41 confirmed deaths and over 727,000 people affected across 25 districts.
- Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma stated that over 100 people are missing and the death toll is expected to rise.
- Heavy water flow from neighboring Nagaland is identified as the primary cause of the current floods, prompting an assessment of the situation in the neighboring state.
Assam is grappling with a severe flood crisis, as the death toll has climbed to 41 and more than 727,000 people are affected across 25 districts in the northeastern state. The Indian Air Force and army are actively involved in rescue operations alongside state authorities.
Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma reported that over 100 individuals are still missing, and he anticipates the death toll may increase in the coming days. The Assam State Disaster Management Authority confirmed 10 new deaths on Wednesday alone, bringing the total to 41. The government has established 469 relief camps, providing shelter to approximately 18,000 displaced individuals.
We have never seen this kind of flood and, as per our assessment, the heavy flow of water from Nagaland is the primary reason. We are going to assess what went wrong in the neighbouring state and will take appropriate steps in the future.
Chief Minister Sarma identified the heavy flow of water from neighboring Nagaland as the primary reason for the unprecedented scale of this year's floods. He indicated that the state would investigate the contributing factors in Nagaland and take future preventive measures. Rescue efforts are extensive, with the Army conducting operations under "Operation Jal Rahat," having already saved over 700 stranded people. The Indian Air Force is airdropping relief supplies, while drone surveillance is being used to assess the situation and identify critical areas.
Disruptions are widespread, with numerous roads submerged and rail services impacted. The Northeast Frontier Railway has rescheduled or canceled over 30 trains due to damaged tracks. Rescue teams are navigating flooded villages by boat, facing significant challenges in reaching all affected populations.
This morning, IAF carried out three sorties, airdropping 627 kg of relief supplies to stranded families in Nazira. Our teams remain on the ground, reaching every family with essential relief.
Originally published by Hindustan Times. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.