Assam Floods Recede, But Death Toll Climbs to 82 as Relief Efforts Continue

Assam's flood situation has shown signs of gradual improvement, with the number of affected people dropping below two lakh. However, the humanitarian crisis continues to cast a long shadow as the death toll rose to 82 after two more fatalities were reported on Friday, according to the Assam Disaster Management Authority (ASDMA).

The latest victims were reported from Nazira revenue circle in Sivasagar district and Sonari in Charaideo district, highlighting that despite receding waters, the danger remains far from over. Authorities confirmed that no one is currently reported missing.

Floodwaters continue to affect five districts, Sivasagar, Golaghat, Jorhat, Nagaon and Charaideo, with 17 revenue circles and 379 villages still inundated. While the overall number of affected residents has fallen to 1,92,799, Charaideo remains the worst-hit district with 77,456 affected people, followed by Sivasagar (63,492) and Jorhat (34,067).

The improving figures mark a positive shift from Thursday, when more than two lakh people across eight districts were battling floodwaters. Nevertheless, thousands remain displaced, underscoring the scale of rehabilitation still required.

The state government, along with the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), continues relief and rescue operations. At present, 54 relief camps are housing 12,994 displaced people, while 26 relief distribution centres are providing assistance to 5,384 beneficiaries.

The agricultural sector has also suffered significant losses, with 15,430 hectares of cropland remaining submerged. Authorities have additionally reported widespread damage to houses, roads and public infrastructure, raising concerns over the pace and cost of recovery.

Although floodwaters are gradually retreating, officials caution that the focus is now shifting from emergency response to rehabilitation, restoration of essential infrastructure, and support for affected communities. The latest developments serve as a reminder that even as the immediate flood threat eases, rebuilding lives and livelihoods will remain a formidable challenge for Assam in the weeks ahead.