Chief Minister Takes Stock of Cyclone Damages, Issues Instructions for Restorative Measures

Due to Cyclone Remal entering Assam and the Northeast from the north of the Bay of Bengal, and occurrence of heavy rain and cyclone, as warnings issued by the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), normal life in the state has been affected since May 27. The Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma, currently in Odisha, spoke to the Chief Secretary of the state to assess the situation and directed close monitoring of relief, rehabilitation, and precautionary measures. Reports indicate uprooted trees, damaged houses and power infrastructure across the state, with injuries to a few school students in Dhekiajuli and loss of lives of two persons due to heavy rain and cyclone. SDRF, Fire Service, Police, APDCL, Health and Forest officials are on high alert and engaged in restorative efforts. Flash floods have been reported in parts of Karimganj district, prompting the district administration to remain on high alert. An orange alert has been issued in Dhubri, South Salmara, Bajali, Barpeta, and Nalbari, while a red alert is in effect for Chirang, Goalpara, Baksa, Tamulpur, Dima Hasao, Cachar, Hailakandi, and Karimganj. A yellow alert has been issued for the remaining districts for May 28 and 29.

The Chief Minister has expressed his shock and deep sorrow over the loss of lives of Kaushik Amphi, a student from Dhupguri area in Morigaon district, who died on the spot due to a fallen tree during the storm, and Putul Gogoi, a worker at the NHPC project in Gerukamukh, who died in a landslide at the site. He directed the Chief Secretary to ensure all necessary assistance to the affected families and timely treatment for the injured. As per the Chief Minister’s direction, the Chief Secretary will hold a video conference with the District Commissioners and the Assam State Disaster Management Authority, in the presence of the Director General of Police, at 5:30 PM today to assess the situation and monitor precautionary measures across the state. The meeting will also make a quick assessment of damages to houses and properties and will take measures to provide immediate relief. Meanwhile, the Chief Secretary instructed the District Commissioners to personally inspect busy passenger ferry ghats across the state to ensure that all precautionary measures are taken.