Cyclone Remal's Aftermath: Heavy Rains Cause Floods, Affecting Thousands in Assam

In the wake of cyclone Remal, Assam has been grappling with severe floods, affecting over 40,000 individuals and claiming one life in Karimganj district. The relentless rains have led to a surge in river water levels across several districts, causing widespread disruption. As of Wednesday, eight districts including Nagaon, Hailakandi, Karbi Anglong, Karimganj, Cachar, Hojai, Golaghat, and West Karbi Anglong have been severely impacted by the floods.

The situation has escalated since Tuesday, with the death toll reaching five. In addition to the fatalities, two persons have been reported missing in Cachar district. The floods have triggered landslides in 11 villages in Dima Hasao and a few others in Cachar and Hailakandi, further exacerbating the crisis. Significant erosion has also been observed in Silchar and Udharbond areas of Cachar district.

The Barak river along with its tributaries - Longai, Kushiara, Singla, and Katakhal - are flowing above the danger mark in several locations across Karimganj, Cachar, and Hailakandi districts. This has resulted in the damage of four embankments in Karimganj alone, making it the worst-hit area with 26,430 people affected.

To mitigate the impact of the floods, authorities have moved residents from vulnerable areas to safer locations. Relief camps have been established, with three in Karimganj and two in Cachar district to shelter those displaced by the floods. In Dima Hasao district, life has come to a standstill due to the rains severely affecting road connectivity. Key roads including Haflong-Silchar and Haflong-Harangajao have been disrupted due to landslides and washouts.

With numerous vehicles stranded near Harangajao area, locals have stepped in to provide food and shelter to affected passengers. The road between Mahur and Laisong has been completely washed away, isolating Laisong village. Authorities have advised against night travel except on the Umrongso-Lanka route and have closed schools in the district as a precautionary measure.

Train services through the hilly section have been halted due to landslides along the Haflong-Badarpur line. In Nagaon district, the rising water level of the Barpani river has caused damage to infrastructure including roads and a wooden bridge at Ramanipathar. A school in Pamali Jarani area has also been submerged due to rising waters.

In Golaghat district, the Dhansiri river is flowing above the danger level causing submersion of several low-lying areas. SDRF personnel have rescued two families in Kanaighat area after their houses were completely submerged. The Brahmaputra and its tributaries are nearing the danger mark in Sonitpur as well.

Ferry services across the state remain suspended due to adverse weather conditions. Chief Secretary Ravi Kota has directed district commissioners to ensure the safety and well-being of affected individuals. The Assam State Disaster Management Authority (ASDMA) is closely monitoring the situation and coordinating efforts across departments and agencies to address this crisis effectively.