Opposition Questions Assam’s Flood Response; Government Defends Preparedness

Guwahati: Assam’s flood preparedness and disaster response came under intense debate in the Legislative Assembly on Tuesday, with Opposition members alleging shortcomings in rescue, relief and rehabilitation efforts following the devastating floods in Upper Assam.

AIUDF MLA Mazibur Rahman and AITC MLA Sherman Ali Ahmed questioned the effectiveness of the state’s disaster management mechanism and the performance of the SDRF and NDRF during the crisis.

Responding to the criticism, Water Resources Minister Pijush Hazarika said the floods were an unprecedented natural calamity that no preparedness could fully prevent. He informed the House that 68 people have died, while eight remain missing, adding that relief and rescue operations are continuing across the affected areas.