Guwahati, 20 August (HS): The flood situation in Assam is gradually improving, with most affected people returning home from relief camps. However, residents are now facing the difficult task of clearing silt and mud from their homes, repairing damaged houses and preparing farmland for the next agricultural cycle.

According to data released by the Assam State Disaster Management Authority (ASDMA) on August 19, all major rivers in the state are flowing below the danger mark. Floodwaters, however, continue to affect four districts—Sivasagar, Nagaon, Golaghat and Jorhat.

A total of 16,922 people in 90 villages across 13 revenue circles remain affected, while around 3,057 hectares of agricultural land are still submerged. The flood-related death toll has reached 106.

The state government continues to operate seven relief camps, where 262 people are currently taking shelter. On Wednesday, 14,645 animals were reported affected, including 6,908 large animals, 4,145 small animals and 3,592 poultry.

Sivasagar has reported significant damage to houses and livestock shelters. According to the August 19 assessment, 49 kutcha and 28 pucca houses were completely damaged, while 49 kutcha and 26 pucca houses suffered partial damage. A total of 32 cattle sheds were also damaged.

Police and administrative teams continue relief and rescue operations in the affected areas. The state government deployed 17 medical teams on Tuesday to provide healthcare services to flood-affected communities.

With most people having returned home, no food items were distributed among the affected population on Wednesday. However, 25.2 quintals of wheat bran were distributed as animal fodder.

The government is continuing its assessment of damage to houses, agricultural land, livestock, roads, bridges, schools and other infrastructure. Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma has said that compensation for the losses will be provided after completion of the detailed damage assessment.-----------

Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash