The flood situation in Assam has once again taken a grim turn, impacting thousands of people in various districts of the state. After seeing some improvement in recent weeks, the situation has worsened with over 21,000 individuals being affected.
According to the latest flood report by the Assam State Disaster Management Authority (ASDMA), a total of 21,723 people residing in 121 villages across 18 revenue circles in six districts, namely Lakhimpur, Dhemaji, Charaideo, Jorhat, Karimganj, Kamrup, and Biswanath Sub-Division, have been affected by the current wave of floods.
The incessant rain in parts of Assam and Arunachal Pradesh has led to rising water levels in several rivers, with the Disang river flowing above the danger level mark at Naglamuraghat and the Dikhou river in Sivasagar.
Among the affected districts, Dhemaji has witnessed the highest number of people affected, with 11,659 individuals suffering from the floodwaters. Lakhimpur district follows closely with 7,516 people affected. Additionally, the floods have submerged approximately 1479.27 hectares of cropland in the affected districts. The deluge has also had a significant impact on livestock, with 24,261 domestic animals and poultry being affected.
Over the last 24 hours, the floodwaters have caused damage to one embankment in Biswanath Sub-Division, as well as 20 roads, culverts, fisheries, and ponds. Unfortunately, the floods have claimed seven lives due to drowning incidents this year.
The recurring floods in Assam highlight the need for effective disaster management and mitigation measures in the region. Immediate attention and assistance are required to alleviate the suffering of the affected communities. The local authorities, along with support from the state and central governments, must coordinate efforts to provide relief and rehabilitation to those affected.
It is important to give due consideration to environmental factors and climate change in order to address the root causes of such frequent flooding. Long-term strategies should be implemented to ensure sustainable development and minimize the impact of floods on the lives and livelihoods of the people in Assam.
The situation in Assam serves as a reminder of the urgent need for comprehensive planning and investment in infrastructure, including flood prevention measures, early warning systems, and robust disaster response mechanisms. Only through collective efforts and proactive measures can the cycle of destruction caused by floods be effectively tackled, ensuring the safety and well-being of the people of Assam.