Assam floods: PM Modi calls CM Himanta Sarma, pledges Centre's full support
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday, 25 July telephoned Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma to take stock of the devastating flood situation gripping the state, assuring the full weight of the Centre behind relief, rehabilitation, and reconstruction efforts. The call underscores the severity of a crisis that has already displaced thousands and affected more than 11 lakh people across multiple districts.
What Was Discussed
According to Chief Minister Sarma, who shared details of the conversation in a post on X, Prime Minister Modi sought a comprehensive briefing on the scale of damage, the progress of ongoing rescue operations, and the administrative challenges being encountered on the ground. Sarma said he apprised the Prime Minister of the measures the state government has deployed to ensure relief reaches every flood-hit family.
Modi reportedly expressed deep grief over the loss of lives and extensive property damage, reiterating that the Centre stands firmly with the people of Assam during the emergency.
What the Centre Has Committed
'The Hon'ble Prime Minister assured that the Government of India is treating this calamity with the highest priority and will extend every possible support for relief, rehabilitation and rebuilding efforts,' Sarma said in his post on X.
Sarma also conveyed the gratitude of Assam's people to the Prime Minister, adding: 'The people of Assam are deeply grateful to Hon'ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi for his steadfast support during this difficult time.'
Scale of the Crisis
Assam has been battered by recurrent waves of flooding triggered by incessant rainfall both within the state and across neighbouring regions. According to the State Disaster Management Authority, more than 11 lakh people have been affected by the deluge, with rescue operations continuing across flood-hit districts.
A multi-agency response is currently underway, with the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), the Indian Army, district administrations, and other rescue teams engaged in evacuation, rescue, and relief work. The state government has simultaneously been operating relief camps, distributing essential supplies, and working to restore damaged infrastructure.
Context and What Comes Next
Flooding is a near-annual crisis for Assam, with the Brahmaputra and its tributaries regularly inundating low-lying districts during the monsoon season. This year's deluge, however, appears particularly severe given the scale of displacement. Notably, Central assurances of support typically precede formal requests for funds from the National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF) — a process the state government is expected to initiate in the coming days.
With relief operations still in progress and the monsoon season far from over, the situation across Assam's flood-affected districts remains closely monitored.