Assam floods death toll rises to 41, over 7 lakh affected

The flood situation in India's northeastern state of Assam has further deteriorated, with 10 more deaths reported in the last 24 hours, bringing the total death toll from the floods to 41. Three people remain missing.

The state disaster management authority confirmed the information on Thursday (July 23), as reported by Turkey-based news agency Anadolu Agency.

According to the Assam State Disaster Management Authority (ASDMA), 939 villages across 11 districts have been submerged. The worst-affected districts are Sivasagar, Jorhat, Charaideo, Karbi Anglong and Dhemaji. The latest 10 deaths were reported from various areas across five districts. Over seven lakh people have been affected by the ongoing floods. Numerous homes, roads and agricultural land have been inundated, severely disrupting normal life.

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said cloudbursts and flash floods have struck many districts where such disasters and damage were very rare in the past. He said the administration has stepped up rescue and relief operations in the affected areas and is taking all necessary measures to tackle the situation.

The Chief Minister's office said all concerned departments have been directed to work round the clock on the ground to ensure relief reaches every affected family and to continue rescue, relief and rehabilitation operations until the situation returns to normal.

Meanwhile, the administration has urged residents of flood-affected areas to move to safe shelters and avoid moving through inundated areas unless absolutely necessary. Rescue teams continue to work in the affected areas with boats and other emergency equipment.