Severe Flooding in Assam: Eight Lives Lost as Brahmaputra River Surges
Impact of Heavy Rainfall in Assam
On Sunday, Assam's Guwahati experienced significant waterlogging due to heavy rainfall, disrupting daily life for many residents. The city faced severe challenges as various areas became inundated.
A local resident expressed concerns about the Brahmaputra River, which poses a serious threat to Dibrugarh's inhabitants as its water level has risen above the danger threshold. Currently, the river is flowing at 105.85 meters, exceeding the danger mark of 105.70 meters.
In response to the potential risks, the district administration has implemented several precautionary measures. Rachna Jain, a local resident, mentioned that the authorities have prohibited public access to the riverbank and installed bamboo barricades for safety.
Community Struggles Amid Rising Waters
Dr. Ramesh Aggarwal, an ophthalmologist and local resident, highlighted the impact of the rising water levels on homes near the river, creating significant hardships for the community. Many residents are now forced to navigate floodwaters using makeshift boats, leading to a pervasive sense of fear.
"The encroaching waters of the Brahmaputra have submerged homes along the banks, causing widespread distress. People are seen evacuating their residences in makeshift boats, and the community is gripped by fear of the river's fury," Dr. Aggarwal stated.
"The water level has risen alarmingly, flooding homes. After 30 years of morning walks in this area, I can confirm that the river has surpassed the danger mark. Every five kilometers I walk, I see homes inundated. Residents are struggling to find places to cook and sleep amidst the chaos."
Government Response and Ongoing Challenges
Despite the district administration's efforts, residents are looking to the government for further assistance. Dr. Aggarwal expressed hope that the authorities would take necessary actions to support those affected.
The Brahmaputra River's water levels remained elevated in Dibrugarh on Sunday, following continuous rainfall across Assam and neighboring areas. This persistent downpour has resulted in flooding in low-lying regions, submerging homes and agricultural fields.
In Guwahati, severe waterlogging was reported in multiple areas after relentless rainfall. Tragically, eight fatalities have been confirmed due to floods and landslides in Assam over the past 24 hours, according to official reports.
Casualties and Affected Areas
The Assam State Disaster Management Authority (ASDMA) reported that three individuals lost their lives in floods, while five perished in landslides. Two victims, including a child, died in Golaghat district due to flooding, and one person drowned in Lakhimpur.
Additionally, five fatalities and two injuries were reported from landslides in the Kamrup (Metro) district. Following the heavy rainfall, 175 villages across 12 districts, including Dhemaji, South Salmara, and Dibrugarh, have been impacted by the initial wave of flooding. Assam's Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma acknowledged the dire situation during a press conference in Guwahati.