Amidst the aftermath of Cyclone Remal, the state finds itself ensnared by deluges, with a tally of two fatalities thus far.
Owing to the relentless downpours, the water levels in the rivers and their tributaries have surged, precipitating widespread inundation across several districts. Each passing day witnesses the encroachment of a new district and the deluge’s extension into fresh territories.
Per the latest statistics from the Assam State Disaster Management Authority, nine districts within the state are presently grappling with floods, impacting approximately 200,000 individuals. The districts of Hailakandi and Karimganj within Barak region bear the brunt of the inundation.
Reports indicate that the Kapili river is surpassing the threshold of danger. The Meteorological Office prognosticates continued rainfall in Assam and the Northeast for a span of five days. Alongside winds clocking in at speeds of 30-40 kilometers per hour, there exists the potential for lightning, thunderstorms, and copious precipitation. Consequently, the flood scenario within the state is anticipated to exacerbate.
Nine districts within the state in the throes of flooding:
The districts of Nagaon, Hailakandi, West Karbi Anglong, Karimganj, Cachar, Hojai, Golaghat, Dima-Hasao, and Karbi Anglong are engulfed by floods. A total of 386 villages across 22 revenue circles within these nine districts have borne the impact. Among these, Cachar district hosts 150 villages, while Karimganj district accounts for 100.
Close to 200,000 individuals affected by the floods:
Approximately 198,856 individuals have been affected across the nine flood-stricken districts. This demographic encompasses 87,377 men, 75,082 women, and 36,397 children. Karimganj district reports the highest toll, with 36,959 individuals impacted, including 15,546 men, 11,417 women, and 9,996 children.
Likewise, 102,246 individuals from Cachar district, 14,308 from Hailakandi, 22,058 from Hojai, 44 from West Karbi Anglong, 22,354 from Nagaon, and 887 from Dima Hasao have also experienced the ramifications of the floods.
Over 3,200 hectares of crop land rendered damaged:
A cumulative expanse of 3,238.8 hectares of agricultural land across the nine districts has suffered damage in the calamitous floods. Notably, Cachar district bears the brunt, with 1,523 hectares adversely affected. Additionally, Nagaon district reports damage to 1,163 hectares of agricultural land, Hojai district to 458 hectares, Golaghat district to 71 hectares, and Hailakandi district to 24 hectares.
Two fatalities recorded amid the floods:
Thus far, two individuals have succumbed to the devastating floods ravaging the state. One victim hails from Lala in Hailakandi district, while the other is a resident of Ramakrishna Nagar in Karimganj district.
Relief and refuge provisions:
A total of 110 shelter camps have been established across the nine districts. Among these, Cachar district boasts the highest count at 53, followed by Karimganj district with 23, Hailakandi district with 19, Hojai district with 9, Dima Hasao district with 4, Nagaon district with 1, and West Karbi Anglong district with 1 shelter camp.
Conversely, 7,409 centers have been instituted for the dissemination of relief supplies. Predominantly, Karimganj district has erected 5,437 centers, marking the highest tally.
Intensified rescue endeavors:
Rescue endeavors have witnessed a surge in flood-affected districts. Multiple agencies, including the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), Fire and Emergency Services, local administrative bodies, and civil defense units, are actively engaged in rescue operations. Over 200 individuals have already been extricated by boat and relocated to secure locations.
Simultaneously, 582 quintals of rice, 499 quintals of pulses, 27 quintals of salt, and 3,140 liters of mustard oil have been disbursed among flood victims. Furthermore, provisions have been made for children’s sustenance, and arrangements for livestock welfare have been instituted.