Assam Flood: Flood scene eases, but problems persist; Death toll rises to 117

STAFF REPORTER

GUWAHATI: The overall flood situation has slightly improved in some districts of the State over the last 24 hours, but many villages and state highways continue to remain submerged. The situation continued to remain critical in the Barak Valley and the Kampur area of the Nagaon district.

The overall death toll rose to 117 with the death of 10 more persons during the last 24 hours.

Some people have started returning home from relief camps in view of improvement of the situation in their respective areas. However, many of them are being confronted with serious damage to their houses. Most of the houses have been rendered uninhabitable due to breakage of walls, floors and accumulation of slush. The condition of the majority of earthen houses in flood-hit areas poses a serious health hazard. In fact, some houses have been washed away altogether. Another major problem in these areas is the scarcity of potable water.

Meanwhile, the Assam State Disaster Management Authority (ASDMA) has given helpline numbers (0361-2237219, 9401044617 and 1079) for requests regarding rescue, relief and other emergency situations for the residents of the Cachar district.

In the meantime, some flood-affected people of the Kampur area have alleged that certain relief distribution personnel are charging amounts ranging from Rs 5-30 from each family in the name of 'carrying charge'.

When contacted by local mediapersons, the Deputy Commissioner of Nagaon said that such 'carrying charge' is illegal and the beneficiaries of relief materials should not pay even a single paisa.

According to the flood report of the ASDMA, 93 revenue circles of 28 districts remain affected by floods as on today. Altogether 33,03,316 people of 3,510 villages are still affected by floods. As on date, 2,65,788 inmates are taking shelter in 717 relief camps in various parts of the state.

The Brahmaputra is flowing over the danger level at Dhubri, while the Kopili is flowing over the danger level at Dharamtul and Kampur.

Two drones have been deployed in Silchar for carrying out inundation mapping as well as to drop relief materials in inaccessible areas.

Also Read: Assam Flood: Mukesh Ambani donates Rs 25 crore to CM's Relief Fund

Also Watch: Assam Police Holds Bike Rally To Celebrate The Winning Of President's Colour Award