Stranded Families Lack Drinkable Water: 73 Relief Camps have been established in Cachar states Minister Pijush Hazarika

Barak Valley is currently grappling with severe flooding, with multiple areas newly inundated on Friday. The breach of embankments, particularly at Rakhalpara, has led to widespread flooding across villages such as Janiganj, Madhurbond, Khalpar, Rangpur, and Karatigram. The malfunctioning sluice gates in Silchar city have exacerbated the situation, causing water levels to rise unexpectedly in residential areas.

The floodwaters have displaced thousands of residents, forcing many to seek refuge in 73 established relief camps across Cachar, alongside 16 in Karimganj and 14 in Hailakandi as informed by Minister Pijush Hazarika. Despite slight reductions in river levels on Friday, the impact remains dire, especially in densely populated areas where food and clean water are increasingly scarce. Many affected villages in areas like Mashimpur, Kumarpara, Rajnagar, Manikpur, Indragar, Thulumapara, Masughat, and Bairagibazar continue to struggle amidst the rising waters.

Minister Pijush Hazarika visited the flood-hit regions of Barak Valley to assess the situation firsthand. He assured residents that efforts are underway to repair the breached embankments, with completion expected within 15 days. Expressing concern over the disparity in water levels between Cachar and other districts, Minister Pijush Hazarika emphasized the need for further investigation into the causes behind these discrepancies.

He acknowledged the severity of the damage caused by the floods, particularly in Barak Valley, where essential infrastructure and livelihoods have been significantly affected. He highlighted the government’s commitment to providing necessary relief and support to affected families, ensuring that relief camps are adequately equipped to handle the crisis.

The minister’s visit and assessment highlights the urgent need for coordinated efforts to mitigate the effects of the ongoing floods in Barak Valley. As the situation evolves, authorities continue to monitor water levels and provide assistance to residents in distress, prioritizing their safety and well-being during this challenging period. As of 3pm the water level at Barak River is at 21.52cm rising by 1cm per hour.

Meanwhile, many families affected by the floods in Barak Valley expressed frustration with the lack of support from local authorities. During interviews with the media, they revealed that no one from the administration had visited to assess their well-being or provide assistance. One distraught woman shared her plight, explaining that she and her family, including young children, are stranded in their submerged house. With the relentless rainfall threatening to worsen the situation, she fears they may have no choice but to evacuate, yet they have nowhere else to go.

Another resident reported that approximately 1000 families in their area have been severely impacted by the floods, yet they have received no official aid or attention. Meanwhile, another woman highlighted the multitude of challenges they are facing, emphasizing the critical shortage of clean drinking water among other pressing issues.