Flash floods wreak havoc in Assam, Arunachal; over 22,000 affected, railway bridge collapses

Assam and Arunachal Pradesh are grappling with the devastating impact of severe flash floods, triggered by days of relentless rainfall. Over 22,000 people have been affected across six districts in Assam, with Dhemaji district bearing the brunt of the disaster. The rising waters have submerged villages and inundated nearly 1,700 hectares of agricultural land, impacting the livelihoods of many.

The floods have not only displaced thousands but also caused significant infrastructural damage. A crucial railway bridge, constructed in 1965 and later converted to broad gauge, collapsed in Dhemaji district due to the erosion of its pier. This collapse has led to the indefinite suspension of train services on the affected branch line. The Northeast Frontier Railway stated that the bridge was in good condition but the heavy rains destabilized its foundation.

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This bridge, constructed in 1965, and later converted to broad gauge, was in good and safe condition, but due to washing away of a large portion of the river bank during the heavy rains, one of its piers became unstable.

In neighboring Arunachal Pradesh, the situation remains critical following recent cloudbursts that caused flash floods and landslides. Authorities have issued warnings for continued thunderstorms, lightning, and heavy rain, anticipating further disruptions and potential landslides in vulnerable areas. Three lives have been lost so far in the state, and search and rescue efforts are underway. The Brahmaputra River and its tributaries are swelling, exacerbating the flood situation and affecting a substantial number of animals in addition to the human toll.

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It was raining very heavily, non-stop. Then the boundary wall collapsed, and the water rushed right inside. We managed to get out somehow.