In the wake of incessant rainfall across Assam, the town of Sribhumi has become the latest flashpoint of the region’s worsening flood crisis. Continuous downpours over the last several days have submerged key roads, homes, and marketplaces, prompting authorities to launch urgent rescue and evacuation missions.
Boats were deployed early Sunday morning across the town’s submerged streets. The Public Works Department (PWD), in coordination with the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), and local volunteers, is spearheading a massive evacuation drive.
Boats Deployed to Evacuate Stranded Residents
Speaking to the press, Circle Officer Ritwik Dutta confirmed that over 30 boats are now actively transporting stranded residents to higher ground and temporary relief camps. “The Sribhumi flood rescue operation is our immediate priority. We are targeting low-lying and elderly-dense localities first,” Dutta said.
Several localities, including Sadarghat Lane, Krishna Nagar, and sections of Gopalbari, are underwater. In some areas, water levels have reached up to chest height. The majority of Sribhumi’s infrastructure, including its drainage network, has buckled under the intensity of the monsoon deluge.
Emergency Measures and Relief Camps
More than 1,500 residents have already been evacuated and shifted to five government-designated shelters equipped with basic necessities. The health department has set up mobile medical units, particularly to address cases of waterborne illnesses.
Tripura’s Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha, in a virtual meeting with Assam counterparts earlier this week, emphasized cross-border support for northeastern towns facing flooding. “Rescue coordination is key. No life should be lost due to mismanagement,” he stated.
Local non-profits, including the Kalpajyoti Foundation, have also stepped in to deliver food, clean water, and clothing to affected families.
Sribhumi’s Fragile Infrastructure Exposed
The Sribhumi flood rescue situation has thrown light on the fragile infrastructure of the town. Civic bodies are now facing scrutiny over the poor maintenance of stormwater drains and a lack of urban flood management systems.
Urban planner Rakesh Barman pointed out, “Sribhumi is not new to waterlogging, but this year’s situation is unprecedented. There has been inadequate desilting, no flood zoning enforcement, and unchecked construction over natural drains.”
Calls for long-term solutions—like improved drainage blueprints, green infrastructure, and climate-resilient development—are growing louder among civil society groups.
Weather Forecast: More Rain Expected
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted continued heavy rainfall for the next 48 hours across the Barak Valley region, urging vulnerable districts like Sribhumi to remain on high alert. With rivers like the Barak and Jatinga nearing danger levels, downstream flooding remains a looming threat.
Public Advised to Follow Safety Guidelines
The district administration has advised residents not to venture out unnecessarily, to stay updated via official channels, and to contact the flood helpline (Toll-Free: 1070) in case of emergency.
Additionally, authorities have suspended schools, colleges, and non-essential government services in Sribhumi until further notice.
Authorities urge citizens to cooperate with evacuation efforts, report any missing persons immediately, and prioritize safety over belongings. Civil society groups and local NGOs are invited to support relief logistics.
For real-time flood updates and relief resources in Assam, visit the official ASDMA website and follow @assam_cmo on Twitter.
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