Army Deployed for Rescue as Assam Flood Crisis Deepens; IAF Kept on Standby

The flood situation in Assam worsened on Monday after days of continuous rainfall, prompting the deployment of the Indian Army for rescue operations while the Indian Air Force (IAF) and other central agencies remained on standby to assist if required.

According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), heavy rain is expected to continue in several districts, including Golaghat, Sivasagar, Charaideo, Dibrugarh, and Tinsukia, although rainfall intensity is likely to ease later this week. Flood alerts have also been issued for Jorhat, Chirang, and nearby regions.

According to ASDMA, floodwaters have affected 580 villages in Assam following days of heavy rainfall.

Hundreds of Villages Affected

The Assam State Disaster Management Authority (ASDMA) reported that flooding has impacted around 580 villages, with more than 10,000 hectares of agricultural land remaining underwater across multiple districts, including Biswanath, Cachar, Dhemaji, Golaghat, Jorhat, Lakhimpur, Sivasagar, Tinsukia, and Udalguri.

Among the worst-hit areas are Sivasagar, Charaideo, Jorhat, and Golaghat, where overflowing rivers have breached embankments, inundated roads, and disrupted transportation networks.

Government Intensifies Relief Efforts

Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said the state government has sought assistance from the Army and the IAF to strengthen rescue and relief operations in severely affected districts. He also directed ministers to visit flood-hit areas and oversee relief distribution while closely monitoring the evolving situation.

Authorities said efforts are underway to provide food, shelter, and emergency assistance to displaced residents.

Rivers Overflow, Infrastructure Damaged

Several rivers, including the Brahmaputra, Burhidihing, Dikhow, Disang, and Dhansiri, are flowing above the danger mark, increasing the risk of further flooding.

In several locations, floodwaters breached embankments, submerged highways, damaged roads, and affected railway infrastructure. Rising water levels also entered parts of the Numaligarh Refinery in Golaghat.

Meanwhile, several residential areas of Guwahati, including Hatigaon, Beltola, Panjabari, Zoo Tiniali, Anil Nagar, and Nabin Nagar, experienced severe waterlogging. Dewatering pumps have been deployed to drain accumulated water.

Train Services Disrupted

Flood-related damage to railway tracks has significantly affected train operations across Upper Assam. The Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) diverted several long-distance trains, cancelled some passenger services, and arranged alternative road transport for stranded passengers.

Help desks have been established at affected railway stations, while food, drinking water, refunds, and special transportation arrangements are being provided to passengers impacted by the disruptions.

Weather Outlook

The IMD has warned of continued thunderstorms and rainfall across many parts of Assam in the short term. However, meteorologists expect weather conditions to gradually improve from midweek if rainfall intensity decreases as forecast.

Authorities continue to monitor river levels and have urged residents in vulnerable areas to remain alert and follow evacuation advisories where necessary.