Guwahati: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Monday said that the recent floods that devastated large parts of the state were unlike conventional monsoon floods and were triggered by exceptionally high rainfall, resulting in extensive damage even in areas that are normally considered safe from inundation.
Talking to reporters here, the Chief Minister said the scale and nature of this year’s floods were unprecedented, attributing the disaster to rainfall that was more than 400 per cent above normal in several parts of the state.
Sarma said the floodwaters did not spread primarily because of overflowing rivers, but due to intense rainfall over a short period, which inundated villages and urban areas that had historically remained outside the flood-prone belt.
He noted that many of the affected locations were situated on relatively higher ground and had rarely witnessed such flooding in the past.
According to the Chief Minister, the unusual weather pattern transformed what would normally be rainwater accumulation into a large-scale humanitarian crisis.
Expressing grief over the loss of lives and widespread destruction caused by the floods, Sarma said the state government had been working round the clock to provide relief and rehabilitation to affected families.
He added that rescue teams, district administrations and various government agencies had been mobilised to ensure food, drinking water, medical assistance and other essential supplies reached those stranded in flood-hit areas.
The Chief Minister also acknowledged the role played by citizens, volunteers and social organisations in extending assistance during the crisis, saying the collective response reflected the spirit of solidarity among the people of Assam.
The flood situation in Assam has affected hundreds of villages across multiple districts, causing significant damage to homes, roads, embankments and agricultural land.
While water levels have started receding in several areas, authorities continue to monitor vulnerable locations and carry out relief and restoration work.
The state government has maintained that rebuilding damaged infrastructure and supporting affected families will remain a priority even after floodwaters recede, with rehabilitation efforts expected to continue over the coming weeks.
(IANS)
