• Wion
  • /India News
  • /Assam grapples with severe flood crisis, over 1.1 million people affected

Assam grapples with severe flood crisis, over 1.1 million people affected

Assam grapples with severe flood crisis, over 1.1 million people affected

Assam grapples with severe flood crisis

Assam continues to battle its worst flood crisis as over 1.1million people across 23 districts are currently affected. The death toll due to this year's floods, landslides and storms has tragically risen to 48, highlighting the severity of the ongoing natural disaster. The flood situation has been exacerbated by the swelling waters of major rivers, including the Brahmaputra and its tributaries, which have risen above the danger mark.

District-wise impact

Lakhimpur emerges as the worst-hit district, with a large number of people grappling with the flood aftermath. It is followed closely by Darrang, where a significant number of individuals are affected, and Golaghat, where many residents are inundated by floodwaters.

Add WION as a Preferred Source

Humanitarian crisis unfolds

Many affected residents have been compelled to vacate their homes, seeking refuge on roads and higher ground as floodwaters submerge their homes.

The local villagers claim that they are dealing with numerous issues as a result of the flood and many of those affected are also having trouble finding food and clean drinking water.

Wildlife Impact

Kaziranga National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its population of endangered one-horned rhinoceroses, faces a critical situation. With reports of a tragic incident where a baby rhinoceros drowned in floodwaters.

Government Response

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma conducted a comprehensive assessment of the flood situation, particularly focusing on flood preparedness measures at Kaziranga National Park. The state's civil administration, alongside the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), Emergency Services and Air Force are actively engaged in extensive rescue and relief operations across affected areas.

Relief Efforts

Over 2,90,000 individuals have sought shelter in 490 relief camps set up by district authorities, providing crucial aid to those displaced by the deluge. However, the challenges persist as floodwaters continue to wreak havoc on embankments, roads, bridges and other vital infrastructure in the affected districts.

(With inputs from agencies)