Assam Floods: Death Toll Rises, Kaziranga Wildlife Devastated

In the last 24 hours, Assam has reported five more deaths due to floods, raising the total to 84. The deluge affected 27 districts and submerged Kaziranga National Park, resulting in the deaths of 159 wild animals, including nine rhinos.

Assam continues to battle severe flooding, with five more fatalities in the past 24 hours, bringing the overall death toll to 84, according to the Disaster Reporting and Information Management System Assam. The floods have affected nearly 14.39 lakh people across 27 districts.

The deluge has submerged 2,580 villages, disrupting life in 86 revenue circles. Approximately 1.57 lakh people are currently seeking refuge in 365 relief camps and distribution centers. Water levels in the Brahmaputra River remain dangerously high at Neamatighat, Tezpur, Guwahati, and Dhubri.

At Kaziranga National Park, the floods have claimed the lives of 159 wild animals, including nine rhinos, reported Field Director Sonali Ghosh. Among the deceased are 128 hog deer, nine rhinos, and other species. Rescue operations have saved 133 animals, with seven still under treatment.

"Seven rescued animals, including two rhino calves and two elephant calves, are currently receiving treatment," Ghosh added. Despite slight improvements in the flood situation, 62 forest camps in Kaziranga remain underwater, with four camps vacated. The park spans 430 sq km and is home to over 2,600 one-horned rhinoceros.

Rescue efforts involve teams from NDRF, SDRF, Fire & Emergency Services, and local administration, all tirelessly working to aid flood-affected areas. (ANI)