Assam facing recurring floods
Assam is once again grappling with devastating floods, with about 2500 villages in 28 districts submerged and over 11 lakh people affected. The Brahmaputra river is the main culprit behind these annual deluges, with 48 lives lost so far this season. The situation has prompted the deployment of NDRF, SDRF, and the Army to rescue affected residents in the worst-hit districts such as Barpeta, Nagaon, and Lakhimpur. Other states in the region such as Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, and Mizoram are also on high alert due to rising water levels.
Widespread impact on rural life
The flooding has taken a severe toll on rural life in Assam, with more than 490 relief camps set up to accommodate the displaced population. Over 2.86 lakh people are currently residing in these camps, while around 42,500 hectares of agricultural land have been damaged, affecting the livelihoods of many. Livestock, such as cattle and poultry, have also been significantly impacted by the floods, further exacerbating the agricultural crisis. The Brahmaputra river is currently flowing above the danger mark in several key areas, heightening concerns about the situation’s escalation.
Geographical factors exacerbating flooding
The recurring floods in Assam can be attributed to the region’s unique geographical features, resembling a bowl that collects water. In the past, floods occurred every 4-5 years, but now they strike with alarming frequency, up to 3-4 times a year. The topography of Assam makes it particularly vulnerable to flooding, especially during the monsoon season when heavy rainfall combines with the overflowing Brahmaputra river. As a result, thousands of residents are forced to evacuate their homes, seeking refuge in overcrowded relief camps. Efforts to mitigate the impact of these floods are ongoing, but the scale of the challenge highlights the urgent need for sustainable solutions to address Assam’s vulnerability to natural disasters.
