The flood situation in Assam remained dire on Saturday, despite officials reporting that water levels have begun to recede in various parts of the state.
The India Meteorological Department’s Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC) in Guwahati has forecasted moderate rainfall across most areas of Assam, with isolated heavy to very heavy rain expected over Kokrajhar district. “Low to moderate flash flood risk is likely over a few watersheds and neighbourhoods of Arunachal Pradesh and southern parts of Assam and Meghalaya,” it added.
Meanwhile, a report by the Assam State Disaster Management Authority (ASDMA) on Friday night indicated that seven more people had lost their lives, and over 1.23 million people are affected by the deluge across 23 districts. The total death toll from this year’s flood, landslides, storms, and lightning has risen to 106.
Dhubri is the worst-affected district, with over 318,000 people impacted, followed by Cachar with nearly 150,000 people, and Golaghat with more than 95,000 people affected by the floodwaters. “Flood water is receding in many parts of the state. As the rain has stopped in most areas, the condition is likely to improve further,” a senior ASDMA official stated.
The administration has been operating 316 relief camps and distribution centres across 18 districts, currently sheltering 295,651 displaced individuals. The state government has distributed 3,621.01 quintals of rice, 666.3 quintals of dal, 6,266.61 quintals of salt, and 11,446.82 litres of mustard oil to flood victims over the past 24 hours.
Presently, 2,406 villages are submerged, and 32,924.32 hectares of cropland have been destroyed across Assam, according to ASDMA. Infrastructure such as embankments, roads, and bridges have also suffered significant damage in many districts.
The Brahmaputra River is currently flowing above the danger mark at Nimatighat, Tezpur, and Dhubri. Its tributaries, Burhidihing at Chenimari and Disang at Nanglamuraghat, are also above the danger level. Additionally, the Barak River’s tributary, Kushiyara, is flowing above the danger mark in Karimganj town.
Due to the widespread flooding, over 667,175 domestic animals and poultry have been affected across the state.
While the floodwaters in Assam are slowly receding, the situation remains severe with significant damage to infrastructure and livelihoods. The state government and disaster management authorities continue to provide essential relief to those affected. As Assam battles the aftermath, it is crucial to stay informed and prepared for any further developments.
Stay updated on the latest weather reports and follow the directives of local authorities to ensure safety. If you wish to help, consider donating to relief efforts or volunteering to support the affected communities.
