Central Government Pledges Support for Flood Rehabilitation in Assam
Government Assistance for Flood-Affected Areas
Aerial view of Upper Assam submerged in floodwaters, showcasing extensive damage (Photo: @himantabiswa/X)
Guwahati, Sept 2: The Union Government is committed to providing comprehensive assistance to the State for the rehabilitation of individuals impacted by severe flooding in three districts, as stated by Sarbananda Sonowal, the Union Minister for Ports, Shipping, and Waterways.
In an interview, Sonowal mentioned that relevant Central Ministries have initiated efforts towards the rehabilitation process. For instance, the Ministry of Panchayat and Rural Development is actively working on enhancing rural infrastructure, including roads. Additionally, they are assessing the feasibility of constructing more houses under the PMGSY in the affected regions.
Moreover, the Jal Shakti Ministry is evaluating the possibility of supplying drinking water to the impacted areas through the Jal Jeevan Mission, while the Surface Transport Ministry is addressing the needs for road construction and repairs. Sonowal emphasized that all relevant Ministries are taking necessary actions for the flood-affected regions.
Regarding new initiatives from his Ministry, Sonowal revealed that the establishment of a Maritime Skill Development Centre is underway, which aims to train 5,000 students annually.
When asked about job prospects for the trainees, Sonowal assured that the maritime sector offers ample employment opportunities. He highlighted that India ranks second globally in the number of seafarers, trailing only the Philippines, and there is significant potential for India to lead in this area.
Additionally, the Minister announced plans to construct new jetties across 20 National Waterways in the North East, with upcoming projects aimed at enhancing tourism by building jetties in major water bodies in the region. Notably, the North East has expanded from having just two national waterways to now encompassing twenty.