The devastating floods in Assam claimed the lives of 15 people as the death toll rose after three more persons lost their lives in the calamity, PTI reported. According to an official bulletin, the number of affected populations surpassed over six lakh.

The number of affected individuals reached 3.5 lakh across 11 districts on Friday. However, a release from the Assam State Disaster Management Authority (ASDMA) indicated that the number of affected districts has decreased to 10. 

One fatality each was reported in the districts of Cachar, Hailakandi, and Karimganj, bringing the total death toll from floods and storms since May 28 to 15. According to the ASDMA bulletin, three major rivers—the Kopili, Barak, and Kushiyara—are flowing above the danger level.

Severely affected areas, relief and rescue operations

The number of affected individuals has reached 601,642, with Nagaon being the worst-hit, with 279,345 people impacted by flooding. Other severely affected districts include Hojai, with 126,813 individuals affected, and Cachar, with 112,265.

A total of 41,564 displaced individuals have taken shelter in 187 relief camps established in various districts. The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), local administration, and residents are actively engaged in rescue and relief operations. According to a post on X by Assam Police, a total of 966 people and 89 animals have been rescued as of Saturday.

“Teams are on the ground, working day and night to ensure the safety and well-being of all affected. We remain steadfast in our commitment to saving lives and providing unwavering support during this challenging time,” the post said.

Train cancelations, disrupted communications

Officials reported that road and rail communication in several parts of the state remains disrupted following incessant rain in the aftermath of Cyclone ‘Remal’. In Cachar district, all educational institutions were closed on Saturday due to the prevailing weather conditions, although scheduled semester and compartmental exams will proceed as planned.

A spokesperson for Northeast Frontier Railway stated that due to track damage between New Haflong’s Chandranathpur section and waterlogging at Silchar station in the Lumding division, at least 10 trains scheduled to commence their journeys from Saturday to Monday have been canceled.