By Our Staff Reporter
Guwahati, Oct 1: At a time when the monsoons should be retreating, Assam has again been hit by floods – for the fourth time this year.
Following incessant rain over the past few days, large parts of the State, particularly in lower Assam, are once again reeling under floods even as Chief Minister Sarbanda Sonowal directed the Deputy Commissioners (DCs) of flood-affected districts to intensify relief and rescue operations.
According to the Assam State Disaster Magement Authority (ASDMA), 86 villages under 7 revenue circles across 5 districts have been affected by the deluge. The affected districts are Lakhimpur, South Salmara, Goalpara, Hojai and Karbi Anglong.
Altogether 78,275 people have been hit by the latest wave of floods. Eighteen relief camps have been opened so far where 9,994 people are taking shelter, as per an ASDMA bulletin issued on Sunday evening.
The first three waves of floods hit the State in April, July and August this year.
According to reports, storm waters cascading down the neighbouring Garo Hills due to heavy rainfall in last couple of days have flooded vast areas in lower Assam, particularly in Goalpara district. Kisi and Mornoi rivers flowing through the district are in spate and many low-lying areas have been inundated.
The road leading to Tura in Meghalaya and origiting in Goalpara district has also been affected. The Moimati embankment at Kharija Manikpur under Matia circle in Goalpara district has been breached.
Meanwhile, the Jamu river eroded 200 metres of land at Dakhin Dabasthan in Hojai district.
The rains in the past two days also affected Durga Puja celebrations in some parts of the State, including Goalpara. Many were forced to stay indoors during the vami and Bijoya Dashami – the last two days of puja festivities – due to intermittent showers. Many were seen drenched while taking out idols of the deities for immersion.
Meanwhile, Chief Minister Sonowal has directed the DCs of flood affected districts to intensify relief and rescue operations and ensure adequate relief for the marooned. He also asked the DCs to ensure availability of all required items in relief camps, besides steps to provide food items, safe drinking water, baby food, fodder and medical help in flood-hit areas.
The CM also directed the ASDMA to maintain close coordition with district administrations and extend all support to tide over the situation.