Assam Flood Death Toll Reaches 78

The death toll in Assam's devastating floods has risen to 78, with more than three lakh people still affected despite floodwaters receding from most parts of the state.

The Assam government has sought a dedicated Central support package for relief, rehabilitation, and reconstruction in the worst-hit districts.

Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said the demand was placed before the Inter-Ministerial Central Team (IMCT), which concluded its four-day visit to flood-ravaged districts of Upper Assam on Wednesday.

The team conducted an on-ground assessment of the damage and reviewed the ongoing relief, restoration, and rehabilitation efforts following assurances given by Union Home Minister Amit Shah.

The state has requested the Centre to recognise the Upper Assam floods as an 'atypical, high-intensity, rapid-onset event', which would allow greater flexibility in damage assessment and the distribution of assistance to affected people.

The state has also sought a dedicated Central support package for Sivasagar, Charaideo, Jorhat, and Golaghat districts to cover relief operations, housing, infrastructure repair, and livelihood restoration.

However, Sarma did not disclose the amount sought from the Centre.

The floods this year have been on an unprecedented scale, leaving behind a trail of devastation.

The Chief Minister expressed confidence that the 'Double Engine Government' would mitigate the suffering of the people.

He added that the IMCT was briefed on the extensive damage caused to critical infrastructure, agriculture, and livelihoods across the affected districts.

Apart from immediate financial assistance, Assam has proposed the establishment of a Northeast disaster risk-reduction mechanism to strengthen coordination among Assam and the seven neighbouring states across all stages of disaster management.

The state has also requested relaxation of documentation and eligibility norms under Central and centrally sponsored schemes so that affected families can access assistance without unnecessary hurdles.

Among its other demands, Assam has sought a district-wise reconstruction plan covering roads, bridges, schools, health facilities, water supply, and power infrastructure.

The ongoing crisis in Assam has highlighted the need for a comprehensive approach to disaster management and rehabilitation.

The state's demands for a special central relief package and long-term recovery plans are crucial in mitigating the suffering of the people and restoring normalcy in the affected areas.

The situation in Assam serves as a reminder of the importance of disaster preparedness and the need for coordinated efforts from the government and other stakeholders to respond to such crises.