Guwahati, 25 July (HS): The Assam Pradesh Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Saturday said the Union and State governments are working in close coordination to tackle the flood situation in Assam, while appealing for a united humanitarian response during the ongoing rescue, relief and rehabilitation operations.

In a press statement, BJP Assam Pradesh Media Panellist Umi Deka Baruah expressed grief over the loss of 62 lives in the floods and extended condolences to the bereaved families. She also prayed for the safe rescue of the eight people who remain missing.

According to the BJP, the floods have affected over 1.1 million people across 2,101 villages in 77 revenue circles covering 25 districts. More than 45,000 displaced people are currently staying in 170 relief camps, while 1,304 relief distribution centres are providing food, drinking water, medicines and other essential supplies.

The party said the floods were triggered by exceptionally heavy rainfall in parts of Nagaland and Assam and stated that the State Government, under Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma, has been leading extensive rescue, relief, rehabilitation and restoration efforts with support from the Indian Air Force, NDRF, SDRF, Assam Police, Fire and Emergency Services, district administrations and other agencies.

The BJP also highlighted the visit of a high-level Inter-Ministerial Central Team to Assam on Saturday to assess the flood damage and review ongoing relief measures. The delegation inspected the impact on agriculture, housing, roads, bridges, health and education infrastructure and held discussions with the State Government on long-term reconstruction and Central assistance.

The statement further said Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma to review the flood situation and assured full support from the Centre for rescue, relief, rehabilitation and reconstruction. The Chief Minister briefed the Prime Minister on the State Government's response, including rescue operations, relief distribution and medical assistance.

The Assam Pradesh BJP expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Modi for his support and appreciated the efforts of the Indian Air Force, NDRF, SDRF, Assam Police, healthcare workers, district administrations, voluntary organisations and volunteers engaged in flood relief operations.

The party also appealed to political parties, social organisations, youth groups, business establishments and citizens to set aside differences and work together in the interest of humanitarian service, while reiterating that both the Centre and the State Government remain committed to supporting every flood-affected family until rehabilitation and reconstruction are complete.--------

Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash