Guwahati: Union Minister for Communications and Development of the Northeastern Region, Jyotiraditya Scindia, on Monday, assured Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma of complete Central assistance for relief and rehabilitation efforts as the state battles a severe flood crisis.
Chief Minister Sarma, taking to his official X handle, expressed gratitude for the Union Minister’s concern, stating that Mr. Scindia had called him to enquire about the flood situation and pledged all possible support from the Central Government. The Chief Minister acknowledged the gesture, highlighting Assam’s appreciation for the solidarity during this challenging period.
The grim flood situation in Assam has already claimed 11 lives, with six fatalities directly attributed to the floods and five others succumbing to landslides across the state, according to reports from the Assam State Disaster Management Authority (ASDMA). The deluge has impacted over 5.15 lakh people across 22 districts. In the past 48 hours alone, one more person drowned in floodwaters in Hojai district, while two others are reported missing in Hailakandi and Dibrugarh districts.
Earlier on Monday, Chief Minister Sarma undertook a visit to Cachar district to assess the ground situation. During his visit, he underscored the critical role of wetland conservation in mitigating urban flooding. He emphasized that preserving wetlands in and around cities, such as Malini Beel, Maheesha Beel, Rangirkhaal, and Singerkhal in Silchar, is crucial as these vibrant ecosystems serve as natural reservoirs. The Chief Minister highlighted that the depletion of these wetlands poses a significant environmental threat and their protection would substantially aid in managing urban floods in the town. Acknowledging their efficacy as natural drainage basins, he remarked that their loss leads to chaotic situations. The government, he added, is actively considering long-term policy measures for a sustainable resolution to the urban flood crisis. Upon his arrival in Silchar, Chief Minister Sarma visited six relief camps set up at various locations, including the Government Boys’ HS School, Normal School, Kendriya Vidyalaya Silchar, Hiron Prova Sishu Mandir, Cosmic Market at Malini Beel, and Ukil Bazar LP School.
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