Assam ministers to remain in flood-hit Sivasagar until situation improves: Pijush Hazarika

Assam Agriculture Minister Pijush Hazarika on Saturday, August 1 said the flood situation in the state is gradually improving, even as the government has intensified relief and rehabilitation efforts in the worst-affected areas of Sivasagar district, where temporary housing for displaced families is set to begin from Sunday.

Speaking during his visit to the flood-hit Nepali Khuti area, Hazarika described the devastation as "havoc created by nature" and said the state government has been working round the clock to assist affected residents. He said multiple ministers have been stationed in Sivasagar for nearly two weeks to oversee relief operations and coordinate rehabilitation measures.

"By the grace of God, the situation is improving. The government is working day and night to help our people. Three or four ministers have been camping in Sivasagar for the last 12 days. I also arrived yesterday under the direction of Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, and we will remain here until the situation improves," Hazarika said.

The minister identified the Nepali Khuti area as the worst-affected location in the district, stating that numerous houses had been completely washed away by the floods.

He said the government would begin constructing temporary shelters for displaced families from Sunday, while permanent houses are expected to be completed within the next two months.

"A large number of houses have been destroyed. We are extending all possible support to the affected people. Temporary houses will start being constructed from tomorrow, while permanent houses will take around two months. We are committed to rebuilding them," he said.

Highlighting the state's relief measures, Hazarika referred to the announcements made by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, including an interim ex gratia assistance of ₹15,000 for all flood-affected families.

He also said the state government has enhanced compensation for families of flood victims. While the standard ex gratia for flood-related deaths is ₹4 lakh, the Chief Minister has announced an additional ₹5 lakh, taking the total compensation to ₹9 lakh for the next of kin of those who lost their lives.

According to the minister, the constituency remains the worst affected by the floods, with 29 deaths reported so far and two people still missing. He said relief, rehabilitation and reconstruction efforts would continue until the situation returns to normal.