Upper Assam faces a severe flash flood crisis after heavy rains over Nagaland hills caused rapid water surges into Sivasagar, Charaideo, and Jorhat districts. Unlike typical Brahmaputra floods, this inundation results mainly from overflowing hill rivers and streams, catching residents off guard. Rail services between Dimapur and Dibrugarh have been suspended due to submerged tracks, stranding passengers and disrupting commerce.
Severe flooding has impacted over 3.6 lakh people in 15 districts, hitting Sivasagar, Charaideo, and Jorhat hardest. With over 57,000 residents affected in Nazira alone and numerous tea estates inundated, significant agricultural losses and distress for tea workers are looming.
Government ministers are overseeing relief efforts alongside State and National Disaster Response Forces. The Indian Army and Air Force remain on standby in case evacuations become necessary. Despite aid efforts, several flood-hit villages continue to face shortages of essentials like drinking water, food and fodder for livestock. Experts highlight the need for improved inter-state hydrological coordination and advanced flood warning systems to better manage such disasters. Meanwhile, residents rely on ongoing rescue and relief operations as the crisis unfolds.
