Assam CM Unveils Comprehensive Flood Rehabilitation Plan, Cites ₹1,000 Crore Need
GUWAHATI: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced on Saturday (August 15, 2026) that the State government is preparing a comprehensive rehabilitation plan for families affected by the devastating floods that have struck the region since April. The plan, he said, will prioritize rebuilding infrastructure, restoring livelihoods, and building a more flood-resilient Assam.
Speaking at the 80th Independence Day celebrations in Guwahati's Khanapara, the Chief Minister emphasized the need for stronger infrastructure, reliable early-warning systems, and resilient livelihoods. He noted that a rapid digital assessment of the flood damage would accelerate the rehabilitation and reconstruction process, enabling the government to respond more effectively.
Mr. Sarma reiterated that Assam would require at least ₹1,000 crore to rebuild the flood-hit areas. While a maximum of 16 districts have experienced floods since April, the eastern Assam districts of Sivasagar, Charaideo, and Jorhat have borne the brunt of the disaster. According to the Assam State Disaster Management Authority, the floods have claimed 104 lives and affected up to 7.21 lakh people so far.
The Chief Minister outlined several measures under the rehabilitation plan. The government will assist eligible families in repairing damaged houses and restoring livestock, poultry, tube wells, looms, and textiles. Additionally, a loan repayment moratorium will be provided to ease the financial burden on affected families. "During this difficult time, the government has not limited itself to providing relief. We are standing beside every flood-affected family and are working with urgency to help them return to normal life," he said.
Beyond flood relief, Mr. Sarma spoke about a broader vision for a peaceful, self-reliant, and opportunity-driven Assam. He highlighted that the State's economy has almost tripled in less than a decade, enabling investments in transformative infrastructure and development. He announced the creation of a Youth Empowerment and Development Department to focus on youth skills and expand entrepreneurial support.
In a significant social initiative, the Chief Minister proposed a policy to support women abandoned by government employees without a legal divorce. Under this proposal, if a government employee abandons his wife and enters into an informal marriage with another woman, 20% of his salary would be deducted and deposited into the bank account of the first wife upon her application. The government is also working on similar legislation to provide financial protection to women abandoned by employees in the private sector.
Meanwhile, in Sivasagar, local MLA Akhil Gogoi began an indefinite hunger strike on Saturday, demanding ₹10 lakh as compensation for each flood-affected family and commercial establishment in the State. He also called for a detailed investigation into the causes of the devastating floods, identification of those responsible, and appropriate action against them.
The flood situation in Assam remains a serious concern as the State government balances immediate relief with long-term rehabilitation efforts. The Chief Minister's announcements signal a push toward systemic recovery, though the scale of the disaster demands sustained attention and resources.
