Assam flood damage likely to cross Rs 1,000 crore, says CM Himanta Sarma

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Wednesday said at least Rs 1,000 crore will be required to repair damaged properties and rehabilitate people affected by the latest wave of floods in the state.

Addressing a press conference, Sarma said Prime Minister Narendra Modi has assured the state of full assistance in the rehabilitation process.

Flood damage assessment underway

Sarma said a rapid assessment drive was launched on August 9 to assess the damage and provide permanent relief to affected families.

"To give a permanent relief, a rapid relief assessment drive was launched on August 9. As per an initial report, over 8,000 families have been assessed and Rs 150 crore damage has been estimated," Sarma said.

The survey will continue until August 30 and is expected to cover around 50,000-60,000 families in the Upper Assam districts that have been badly hit by the latest floods.

"I believe there will be a spending of over Rs 1,000 crore in damage repair and rehabilitation. The PM has assured that there is no issue in paying the affected families and asked us to do the assessment without any lapse," Sarma said.

YouTubers raise funds for flood relief

The Chief Minister also acknowledged the support extended by various groups to people affected by the floods.

According to Sarma, 72 YouTubers have raised funds across the country for relief efforts.

"Many of them are already working on the ground and giving relief to the people. We are keeping a close watch on them whether they are spending the money for flood affected areas," he added.

Rs 11.3 crore released for Anganwadi centres

Sarma also announced financial assistance to rebuild flood-damaged Anganwadi centres in Upper Assam.

He released Rs 11.3 crore for the reconstruction of 494 centres affected by the floods.

"We want to restart these centres as soon as possible so that all services can be provided. Altogether 494 Anganwadi centres, which were damaged, will be rebuilt in this drive," he said.

Each centre will receive up to Rs 2.5 lakh for restoration, with the aim of reopening these important community spaces and resuming services for local residents.