The Chief Minister of Assam, Himanta Biswa Sarma, has confirmed that the government will allocate approximately Rs 1,000 crore for relief, assistance, and rehabilitation of individuals impacted by the severe floods in Upper Assam. These floods have particularly affected the districts of Sivasagar, Charaideo, and Jorhat since July 19. The announcement was made in a press conference held on August 12 in Guwahati.

During the conference, Sarma detailed plans to conduct a comprehensive survey of the damages using a mobile application. Currently, 960 surveyors have assessed 8,325 families, and the second phase of surveys has already commenced. The Chief Minister expressed confidence that the survey will be completed by September 15, assuring that the process will be conducted transparently.

Those affected by the floods will have access to a detailed list of survey participants. Individuals whose names are not included will have the opportunity to be added to the list even after the survey concludes, ensuring that all affected parties receive the necessary assistance.

Initiatives for Infrastructure and Financial Assistance

In addition to the survey, the Chief Minister announced plans for constructing housing colonies in areas where homes have been completely destroyed due to flooding. This initiative will be financed through the Chief Minister’s Relief Fund. Furthermore, he urged eligible flood victims to file insurance claims to secure compensation.

Sarma also called upon those seeking a six-month moratorium on bank loan repayments or an extension of their repayment period to submit their applications by August 30. This move aims to mitigate financial distress among affected individuals owing to the floods.

The state government will make efforts to restore educational facilities in the regions where flooding has receded, with a target date of August 15 to make schools operational for classes. To facilitate this, Rs 2 lakh has been allocated to each of 793 schools in the affected areas.

Support for Religious Institutions and Vigilance Against Exploitation

Recognizing the cultural importance of religious observances in Assam, the government will provide Rs 1.50 lakh to every Naamghar to support the organisation of Naam Prasanga events during the auspicious month of Bhada. This initiative aims to uphold the spiritual needs of the community in the wake of the disaster.

Additionally, the Chief Minister remarked on the government’s commitment to monitor any negative activities or commentary that might exploit the flood situation for financial gain or exacerbate divisions within society. He acknowledged the unifying spirit of Assamese culture and pledged to defend it against malicious intents.

Sarma noted that 72 YouTubers have raised funds for flood relief. If these contributions are genuinely directed towards helping flood victims, the government is willing to honour their efforts, clarifying that this is not an investigation but a recognition of their contributions.

Furthermore, he mentioned that the government is prepared to approach the Supreme Court regarding issues related to coal or stone-and-sand mining in specific regions. The Chief Minister also invited individuals with any concerns about flood relief efforts to come forward for possible investigations, thereby maintaining transparency in the recovery process.

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