Assam floods: 18 dead, over 5 lakh people affected as new regions flooded

Assam continues to grapple with severe flooding as new areas become inundated and three more fatalities were reported, according to an official bulletin released on June 2.

Despite a marginal decrease in the number of affected people, rivers remain swollen, and displaced residents are taking refuge in relief camps across the state.

The Assam State Disaster Management Authority (ASDMA) bulletin reports that 5,35,246 people in 13 districts are still reeling from the floods.

Two deaths were reported in Cachar and one in Nagaon, bringing the total number of fatalities from floods and storms since May 28 to 18.

Three major rivers – Kopili, Barak, and Kushiyara – are flowing above the danger level, exacerbating the situation.

Nagaon is the worst-hit district with 3,03,567 people affected, followed by Cachar with 1,09,798 affected individuals, and Hojai where 86,382 people are impacted.

In response to the crisis, more than 39,000 displaced residents have taken shelter in 193 relief camps set up across the affected districts. Additionally, 82 relief distribution centres are operational to provide necessary supplies to those in need.

Rescue and relief operations are being conducted by multiple agencies, including the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), and local administration teams.

Medical teams have also been deployed to the affected areas to provide healthcare services to the displaced population.

The floods have caused significant damage to infrastructure, including roads, bridges, and other properties, across various districts.

The ASDMA and other relief agencies are working tirelessly to mitigate the impact of the floods and provide necessary assistance to the affected populations.

However, with rivers still above danger levels and new areas getting flooded, the situation remains critical.