Guwahati, 12 August (HS): The flood situation in Assam is gradually improving as water levels in several rivers continue to recede, although seven districts are still affected. Many flood-hit people continue to take shelter in relief camps and temporary plastic tents along embankments as the administration maintains relief and rescue operations.

According to data released by the Assam State Disaster Management Authority (ASDMA) for August 11, the Dhansiri river at Numaligarh and the Kushiyara river in Sribhumi district are still flowing above the danger level. The flood-related death toll in the state has reached 102.

Floodwaters have affected 441 villages across 25 revenue circles in seven districts — Golaghat, Sivasagar, Hojai, Jorhat, Darrang, Lakhimpur and Nagaon. A total of 112,718 people remain affected, while 10,879.03 hectares of agricultural land are submerged.

The state government continues to operate 92 relief facilities, including 47 relief camps and 45 relief distribution centres. As many as 7,982 people are staying in relief camps, while 22,223 non-camp residents are receiving relief from distribution centres.

The flood has also affected 29,650 animals, including 12,395 large animals, 11,108 small animals and 6,147 poultry birds. In Nagaon district, 2,000 poultry birds were reported to have been washed away by floodwaters.

In Sivasagar district, 130 kutcha houses and 21 pucca houses have been completely damaged. Another 246 kutcha houses and 79 pucca houses have suffered partial damage. Ten other huts and 31 cattle sheds have also been damaged.

The SDRF, DDRF, police, Fire and Emergency Services, circle offices, local administration, civil defence personnel and trained volunteers are engaged in relief and rescue operations. The government deployed 67 medical teams in flood-affected areas on Tuesday, while 10 boats were used for rescue and relief operations. A total of 121 people were rescued by boats and moved to safer locations.

Relief materials distributed among affected people included 420.323 quintals of rice, 74.715 quintals of pulses, 22.4162 quintals of salt and 2,058.9534 litres of mustard oil. Animal feed comprising 112.23 quintals of wheat bran and 321.36 quintals of rice bran was also distributed.

Floodwaters have caused extensive damage to roads, bridges and other infrastructure across the state. The government is reviewing the situation and taking steps for restoration and repair. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma and other ministers are holding regular meetings with senior officials and monitoring relief and rehabilitation efforts.----------

Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash