The Assam flood situation became dedicated on Monday as rain persisted in northeastern India. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma stated that the Brahmaputra and all of its tributaries were already running beyond the danger level, and the India Meteorological Department predicted severe rains over the next two to three days. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also spoke with the Chief Minister about the current problem and promised ‘full cooperation’ from the national government.
“Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji called me a short while ago to inquire about the flood situation in Assam. I explained to him that Assam is experiencing a second wave of floods this year due to heavy rains in Arunachal Pradesh and part of our upper Assam districts. I also briefed him about the relief measures undertaken by the state government. He assured me of full cooperation from the Government of India in this hour of crisis,” Sarma tweeted.
The CM also held a news conference on Monday afternoon, stating that the NDRF and Army are ready to respond to any emergency. Officials added that the downpour has affected around 2.7 lakh people in 14 districts, including the Brahmaputra and Barak valleys.
According to an official estimate, increasing water levels have affected more than 43% of the 233 forest camps in Kaziranga National Park and Tiger Reserve. Scores of animals have begun crossing National Highway 715 in search of higher ground, while most of the natural habitat remains inundated. There have been no reports of animal deaths as a result of floods or accidents while crossing the roadway. The Golaghat district administration issued prohibitory orders under Section 144 of the CrPC on Sunday evening to protect animals crossing NH-715.
As the situation worsened overnight, Assam ministers were also asked to visit flood-affected regions and aid those in need. According to Sarma, the water levels of the Brahmaputra, Neamatighat, Tezpur, and other rivers have overflowed in numerous areas.
“In view of the current flood situation, we have temporarily stopped the District Commissioners’ Meeting in Lakhimpur. I have directed ministers to visit the flood-hit districts and requested MLAs and ministers to stay in the affected areas and assist the flood-affected people. The next 48 hours are crucial,” he emphasized.
