Assam has been grappling with heavy and incessant rainfall, resulting in the rising water levels of various rivers, including the mighty Brahmaputra. The rainfall spell has led to severe flooding in several parts of the state, posing a significant challenge to the local population.
The Central Water Commission (CWC) report indicates that the Brahmaputra river, a lifeline for the region, has surpassed the danger mark at Nematighat in the Jorhat district. Furthermore, the Kopili river in Kampur (Nagaon) and the Puthimari river in Kamrup district have also breached the danger level. Additionally, several other rivers, including different stretches of the Brahmaputra, are flowing above the warning level.
Impact on People and Infrastructure
The relentless rain over the past few days has triggered the first wave of floods, affecting thousands of people in ten districts of Assam. As per the Assam State Disaster Management Authority (ASDMA), approximately 37,535 individuals have been affected by the deluge. Regrettably, one casualty has been reported due to a landslide in Guwahati. However, no loss of life has been recorded due to the floodwaters at this point.
The floodwaters have caused damage to embankments, leading to breaches across the state. Additionally, massive erosion has occurred in various regions, exacerbating the overall impact. Roads, bridges, and schools have been submerged or damaged, compounding the challenges faced by the affected communities.
Preparedness and Response
Assam Chief Minister Dr Himanta Biswa Sarma has taken proactive measures to enhance flood preparedness. Following a comprehensive review of the situation, detailed instructions have been issued to the Deputy Commissioners. The Assam State Disaster Management Authority (ASDMA) has established formal arrangements for data sharing with neighboring countries, district agencies, Deputy Commissioners, and the Central Water Commission.
ASDMA CEO Gyanendra Dev Tripathi, in an interview with news agency ANI, assured that all relevant agencies, including the Indian Army, Indian Air Force, National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), Fire and Emergency Services, Central Water Commission, and the India Meteorological Department (IMD), are on high alert. They are working diligently day and night to enhance preparedness and mitigate the impact of the floods.
Weather Outlook
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a daily bulletin stating that heavy to very heavy rainfall is expected to persist over Northeast India, sub-Himalayan West Bengal, and Sikkim for the next five days. Additionally, isolated extremely heavy rainfall is anticipated over Meghalaya between 17th and 19th June. These forecasts highlight the urgent need for continued vigilance and preparedness in the affected regions.
The heavy and incessant rainfall in Assam has led to a critical situation with rising water levels in various rivers, causing severe flooding across the state. Thousands of people have been affected, and significant damage to infrastructure has been reported. The Assam government, along with various agencies and authorities, is working tirelessly to enhance preparedness and response efforts to mitigate the impact of the floods. As the weather outlook remains challenging, ongoing vigilance and support from all stakeholders are crucial to ensure the safety and well-being of the affected population.