Severe Flooding in Jorhat: Residents Evacuated as Bhogdoi River Overflows

Flood Crisis in Jorhat

Jorhat, July 20: The flood situation in Jorhat has significantly deteriorated as the Bhogdoi River breached its banks at several points, leading to widespread flooding of agricultural fields and residential areas, compelling residents to find refuge on higher ground.

In the early hours of Monday, the river overflowed, inundating villages in north-western Jorhat.

Areas such as Alengmora, Khutiyapatia, Majiyabhedi, Sonari Gaon, and Katiyamor Chuk have been severely impacted.

“We have never experienced such a perilous condition with the Bhogdoi River. The embankment gave way around 2 am, and the water level surged rapidly, leaving residents with little time to react. People are not only trying to save themselves but are also moving their livestock to safer areas,” shared a local from Alengmora.

Flood-affected individuals in Jorhat attempting to relocate their livestock to higher ground (Photo: AT)

According to residents, nearly 16 villages, including Alengmora, are submerged, and there is a critical shortage of safe drinking water.

Locals noted that the Bhogdoi River is experiencing one of its most severe flooding events since 1988, attributing the rise in water levels to continuous rainfall in Nagaland and heavy precipitation in Upper Assam.

“We appeal to the Chief Minister and local authorities to provide drinking water and food, especially for children who are taking shelter in community areas and elevated locations,” another villager remarked.

Authorities are relocating affected individuals to safer areas, and electricity has been cut off in some flooded regions as a precaution. Senior district officials are actively monitoring the situation.

In light of the worsening conditions, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced on Sunday that the state government has requested the Indian Army and Air Force to be on standby for potential evacuation and rescue efforts in flood-affected districts, including Jorhat.

In a social media update, Sarma instructed Cabinet Ministers Ajanta Neog, Bimal Bora, Keshab Mahanta, and Sushanta Borgohain to visit the impacted areas, oversee relief efforts, and ensure timely assistance for all affected families.

“The safety and welfare of our citizens is our utmost priority. I am continuously monitoring the situation and will take all necessary measures to safeguard lives and provide relief,” the Chief Minister stated.

Suspension of Ferry Services to Majuli

The escalating flood situation has also disrupted access to Majuli. Ferry services between the river island and Jorhat have been suspended indefinitely due to the rising waters of the Brahmaputra, which have submerged ferry docking areas.

This suspension has left hundreds of passengers stranded and has complicated matters for patients needing medical care outside the island.

“The Brahmaputra's water level is rising alarmingly. Authorities have ordered the closure of ghats and ferry services. People are facing transportation challenges, but there are no alternatives given the circumstances,” a ferry operator explained.

Another local mentioned that he had to cancel plans to take his father to Jorhat Medical College and Hospital.

“Today was his scheduled admission date. However, with the ferry services between Majuli and Nimati halted, we had to return home,” he said.

Meanwhile, the district administration, along with the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), and other rescue teams, are actively working to evacuate stranded residents and mitigate further damage.

Officials and community members are also reinforcing vulnerable sections of the embankments amid concerns of additional breaches.