Floods in Assam worsen as death toll rises to 46 across Northeast India. With over 6.79 lakh affected in Assam alone, rivers continue to flow above danger levels. Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, and other states also report severe damage. Relief efforts are ongoing amid continued rainfall and landslide threats.
The flood situation in Assam has deteriorated significantly, worsening the humanitarian crisis already gripping the northeastern region of India. As of Wednesday, the cumulative death toll due to floods and rain-related incidents has risen to 46 across seven northeastern states (excluding Sikkim), with Assam being the worst-hit. Despite a slight decline in rainfall intensity in some states, the water levels of major rivers continue to rise, exacerbating the impact on lives, livelihoods, and infrastructure.
Assam: The Epicenter of the Crisis
Assam continues to bear the brunt of the deluge. According to the latest bulletin from the Assam State Disaster Management Authority (ASDMA), two more deaths were reported on Wednesday — one in Nagaon and the other in Cachar — pushing the state’s flood-related death toll to 19. One person remains missing in Cachar district. In total, nearly 6.79 lakh people across 21 districts have been affected.
Sribhumi district remains the worst-hit, with over 2.59 lakh people impacted, followed by Hailakandi (1.72 lakh) and Nagaon (1.02 lakh). The relentless floodwaters have submerged over 14,977 hectares of cropland, affecting over 1,494 villages. Urban flooding has also been reported in two districts, affecting over 1,000 residents.
To shelter the displaced, more than 41,000 people have sought refuge in 190 relief camps, with an additional 215 relief distribution centers in operation. The floodwaters have inflicted severe damage on infrastructure, including roads, bridges, educational institutions, Anganwadi centers, and electricity lines. Train services, especially in southern Assam (Silchar), have been disrupted due to track submersion and waterlogging.
Rivers Above Danger Level
The flood situation has been compounded by the fact that the Brahmaputra River and eight of its tributaries — including Burhidihing, Kopili, Barak, Sonai, Rukni, Dhaleswari, Katakhal, and Kushiyara — are flowing above the danger level at multiple locations. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast heavy to very heavy rainfall for the coming days in isolated pockets, raising concerns of further flooding. Thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and wind speeds of 30–40 kmph are expected in Dhubri, Goalpara, South Salmara-Mankachar, and Kokrajhar.
Widespread Impact Across the Northeast
Floods and rain-induced disasters have not spared other northeastern states. According to officials, 12 deaths have been reported from Arunachal Pradesh, followed by six in Meghalaya, five in Mizoram, two in Tripura, and one each in Manipur and Nagaland, since the latest spell of monsoon-related devastation began on May 29.
Arunachal Pradesh: Landslides Add to Misery
In Arunachal Pradesh, incessant rain has caused fresh landslides and submerged new areas. Over 3,000 people across 23 districts have been affected. The State Emergency Operation Centre (SEOC) reported recent landslides in Dibang Valley, Anjaw, and along the Likabali-Aalo highway, causing widespread disruption.
So far, at least 12 people, including women and children, have died in five districts — East Kameng, Lower Subansiri, Longding, Lohit, and Anjaw. The worst-affected district, Changlang, saw six villages inundated, displacing 2,231 people. Popular tourist spots like Zupra and River Cafe near Noa-Dehing River have been submerged.
Additionally, 212 houses were destroyed, 425 livestock perished, and 17 hectares of farmland and 20 hectares of horticulture plantations were damaged.
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Manipur: Assam Rifles Lead Relief Operations
In Manipur, particularly in the Imphal Valley, the situation has been critical. The Assam Rifles stepped in to carry out humanitarian operations, delivering 350 litres of potable water and 5,000 litres of general-use water to the residents of Thambalkhong Leirak, Wangkhei. Another operation in Khumidok village, Imphal East, involved rescuing stranded civilians, establishing a medical camp, and conducting defogging to prevent disease outbreaks. Their swift response has earned heartfelt gratitude from the local communities.
Improving Conditions in Other States
While the floodwaters continue to rise in Assam and Arunachal Pradesh, the situation is reportedly improving in Tripura, Meghalaya, Mizoram, and Nagaland. However, the long-term damage to agriculture, transportation, and housing in these regions remains significant.
The devastating floods across the Northeast have once again exposed the region’s vulnerability to climate extremes. In Assam and Arunachal Pradesh, where the situation remains grim, ongoing efforts by disaster response teams, including state authorities and military personnel, are providing much-needed relief. As the monsoon continues, timely interventions, accurate weather forecasting, and coordinated rescue and relief operations will be crucial in minimizing further loss of life and property.
