Assams Chief Minister Discusses Rebuilding Flood-Damaged Villages

Guwahati, August 3: Assam’s Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma indicated on Monday that the state government may need to resettle entire villages devastated by recent floods in Upper Assam. He stated that the level of destruction in the Sivasagar and Charaideo districts is so severe that immediate relief measures alone will not suffice.

After touring the flood-affected Nepali Khuti area in Sivasagar district by tractor, due to accessibility issues in some regions, Sarma noted that many villages have sustained such extensive damage that comprehensive rehabilitation and reconstruction will be necessary.

The Chief Minister emphasized that the devastation in Sivasagar and Charaideo is far more serious than what is portrayed on television. Merely providing flood relief will not be enough. In areas like Bihubor, Nepali Khuti, Betbari, and Nimaijan, entire villages may need to be resettled.

He mentioned that after a detailed assessment of the flood damage, the government will formulate a long-term rehabilitation plan.

During his visit, Sarma spoke with affected families, many of whom reported losing their homes, livestock, agricultural land, and other means of livelihood. The Chief Minister acknowledged that due to the extent of the damage in several areas, it will be challenging for families to resume normal life even after the floodwaters recede.

Officials accompanying the Chief Minister reported that the proposed rehabilitation process will involve a comprehensive assessment of damaged homes, public infrastructure, embankments, roads, and livelihoods, which will inform the final reconstruction plan.

The government is also expected to consider measures to rebuild essential community infrastructure and restore basic services in the most severely affected villages.

Recent heavy rains and river surges have caused widespread devastation in Upper Assam, with Sivasagar and Charaideo being among the hardest-hit districts.

Thousands of families have been displaced as villages remained submerged for several days, resulting in significant damage to homes, agricultural land, livestock, and public infrastructure.

Sarma stated that the government will continue field visits and technical assessments to ensure that rehabilitation efforts extend beyond short-term relief, providing a lasting solution for families whose homes and villages have been severely impacted by this disaster.