Guwahati, 30th May: Incessant rains following Cyclone Remal have caused widespread flooding in Assam, affecting over 40,000 residents and resulting in one fatality, officials reported on Wednesday. The deluge has increased water levels in multiple rivers, submerging eight districts under floodwaters.
A tragic drowning in Karimganj district brought the death toll to five since Tuesday, while two individuals remain missing in neighboring Cachar district.
The floods have struck Nagaon, Hailakandi, Karbi Anglong, Karimganj, Cachar, Hojai, Golaghat, and West Karbi Anglong. Landslides have been reported in 11 villages in Dima Hasao, three in Cachar, and one in Hailakandi, alongside significant erosion in Silchar and Udharbond, Cachar district.
In Karimganj, Cachar, and Hailakandi, the Barak River and its tributaries—Longai, Kushiara, Singla, and Katakhal—are flowing above danger levels. Four embankments in Karimganj have been damaged, making it the hardest-hit district with 26,430 affected individuals. Cachar and Hailakandi have 8,351 and 6,227 affected residents, respectively.
Authorities have relocated residents from vulnerable areas, establishing three relief camps in Karimganj and two in Cachar to shelter displaced people.
The incessant rains have paralyzed life in the hilly Dima Hasao district, severely impacting road connectivity. The Haflong-Silchar Road was disrupted after a section was washed away near Harangajao, and multiple landslides blocked the Haflong-Harangajao Road. Many vehicles are stranded in the Harangajao area, with locals providing aid to the passengers. The road between Mahur and Laisong has been entirely washed away, isolating Laisong village.
Authorities have advised against nighttime travel, except on the Umrongso-Lanka route, and have closed schools in the affected districts. Landslides along the Haflong-Badarpur rail line have halted train services through the hilly section.
In Nagaon, the Barpani River’s rising waters have flooded the Sildubi-Amdubi Road, damaged a bridge at Ramanipathar, and submerged a school in Pamali Jarani. Golaghat’s Dhansiri River is flowing above danger levels, submerging several low-lying areas. The State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) rescued two families in Kanaighat after their homes were completely submerged.
The Brahmaputra and its tributaries are nearing danger marks in Sonitpur, while ferry services statewide remain suspended due to the severe weather.
Chief Secretary Ravi Kota has directed district commissioners to prioritize the safety and well-being of affected residents. The Assam State Disaster Management Authority (ASDMA) is actively monitoring the situation and coordinating relief efforts with various departments and agencies to mitigate the disaster’s impact.
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