Guwahati, 03 August (HS): Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Monday announced the release of over ₹160 crore as direct financial assistance to flood-affected families across the state, reaffirming the government's commitment to supporting those hit by the recent floods.

Under the first phase of relief, ₹15,000 each has been directly transferred to the bank accounts of more than 75,000 affected families. The state also released financial assistance for eligible beneficiaries under the PM Surya Ghar Yojana, taking the total direct transfer to over ₹160 crore.

The Chief Minister said the interim assistance aims to help families resume normal life and rebuild their homes after the floods. He added that final compensation would be determined after a comprehensive assessment of the damage.

Sarma further announced that families in the worst-hit districts of Sivasagar and Charaideo would receive an additional ₹10,000 each within the next few days.

After visiting the devastated areas of Nepalikhuti by tractor, the Chief Minister said the extent of destruction in Sivasagar and Charaideo was far more severe than what appeared on television. He stressed that flood relief alone would not be sufficient and called for the reconstruction of severely affected villages, including Bihubar, Nepalikhuti, Betbari and Nimaijan, to ensure long-term rehabilitation.-----------

Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash