Severe Flooding in Assam Affects Over 5.6 Lakh Residents
Critical Flood Situation in Assam
Guwahati/Morigaon, Jun 6: The flood crisis in Assam remains dire, impacting more than 560,000 individuals across 16 districts, according to an official report released on Friday.
The current death toll from this year's floods and landslides has reached 21, with two additional fatalities confirmed on Thursday.
Wildlife is also suffering, as nearly 70% of the Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary in Morigaon district is submerged, as reported by officials.
The Regional Meteorological Centre in Guwahati has predicted thunderstorms and lightning in isolated areas across 18 districts for Friday.
Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma is scheduled to visit the Barak Valley for the second consecutive day this week to assess the situation, particularly in three of the most affected districts in the southern region.
According to the Assam State Disaster Management Authority (ASDMA), 57 revenue circles and 1,406 villages in 16 districts are currently flooded, impacting 561,644 residents.
Over 41,000 displaced individuals are taking refuge in 175 relief camps, with an additional 210 relief distribution centers operational.
The State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) has been actively conducting evacuation efforts in Sribhumi district since the morning, as stated by ASDMA.
The report also indicated that 3,348 individuals in two districts are experiencing "urban flooding."
The Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary has been significantly affected by the rising waters of the Brahmaputra and Kopili rivers, according to officials.
The floods have compelled rhinos and other wildlife to seek higher ground for safety. The forest department is implementing measures to safeguard these animals, including providing food and preventing poaching.
Increased patrolling in the sanctuary, especially at night, is underway, with boats being utilized to monitor forest camps.
Some departmental elephants have been relocated to the Burha Mayong hills to ensure their safety amid the rising floodwaters, officials reported.
The escalating waters of the Brahmaputra and Kohora rivers have inundated large areas of Kaziranga National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as noted by another official on Thursday.