Assam Floods: CM Blames Nagaland Mining, Death Toll Hits 87
Assam Floods: CM Blames Nagaland Mining, Death Toll Hits 87
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma points fingers at Nagaland mining for devastating floods, as death toll reaches 87. Get the latest on relief efforts and the ongoing debate!
Assam is currently grappling with a devastating flood crisis, which has tragically claimed 87 lives so far. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has pointed towards mining activities in neighboring Nagaland as a potential contributing factor to the unprecedented disaster, a claim that Nagaland-based organizations have swiftly refuted. The majority of casualties have occurred in three districts bordering Nagaland, Sivasagar, Charaideo, and Jorhat, areas that historically have not experienced such severe flooding.
With 1.28 lakh people affected across seven districts, the situation remains critical. CM Sarma has announced that the state government will commence damage assessment from August 9 to expedite relief and rehabilitation efforts for the displaced families. He emphasized his intention to discuss the matter with the Centre, stressing the need for a scientific study to conclusively determine the root causes of the flooding. The Chief Minister also firmly stated that there is no illegal mining occurring within Assam’s borders.
However, local voices, including Sibsagar MLA Akhil Gogoi, have openly attributed the floods to alleged illegal sand, stone, and coal mining, alongside rampant deforestation in the foothills of Nagaland. They argue that these activities have stripped away natural barriers, allowing floodwaters to rush unimpeded into Assam after intense rainfall.
Beyond identifying potential causes, the state government is focused on immediate relief and long-term recovery. Plans include draining floodwaters, rebuilding damaged homes under rehabilitation programs, and prioritizing healthcare, power restoration, and sanitation in the affected zones. CM Sarma also addressed infrastructure issues, noting that certain highways have impeded the natural flow of floodwaters. He plans to request the National Highways Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited to construct additional cross-drainage structures to mitigate future occurrences. Meanwhile, insurance providers like Canara HSBC Life Insurance are simplifying claim processes, and IRDAI has urged all insurers to expedite settlements for flood-affected families, offering some relief to those impacted.
