The Assam government has disbursed nearly Rs 150 crore in interim flood relief to affected families, while the assessment of damage across flood-hit areas has reached around 75 per cent, officials said during a review of the ongoing flood response.The government is aiming to settle all remaining eligible relief claims by Monday, August 17. More than 1,000 surveyors have been deployed across affected areas to complete the pending assessment and identify families eligible for assistance.The progress was reviewed during a meeting on the flood situation, where officials took stock of relief distribution, damage assessment, restoration of essential services and reconstruction of public infrastructure.According to officials, around three-fourths of the damage assessment has now been completed. The remaining survey work is being expedited so that eligible beneficiaries can receive assistance without unnecessary delay.
The restoration of essential public services has also been taken up on a priority basis. Repairs are currently underway at 793 schools damaged by the floods. The institutions are being prepared for reopening after the necessary repair and restoration work is completed.Flood-damaged roads and other government infrastructure are also being repaired as part of the ongoing recovery efforts. Authorities have directed the concerned departments to give priority to restoring infrastructure that is important for the movement of people and delivery of essential services in affected areas.In Sivasagar, high-capacity pumps have been operating continuously to drain stagnant water from low-lying areas. The pumping operation is aimed at helping residents return to normal life in areas that have remained affected by waterlogging.The health department has meanwhile been directed to expand medical camps in flood-affected locations. Health teams are maintaining surveillance for water-borne diseases and other health risks that may emerge following prolonged inundation and the accumulation of stagnant water.
The review meeting also examined relief measures related to loans and insurance. Eligible beneficiaries have been asked to submit their claims by August 30 to enable the authorities concerned to process the cases without unnecessary delays.Officials are also mapping compensation and other forms of assistance to ensure that affected households are identified and that all eligible families receive the support due to them.The government has instructed the departments involved in flood relief and reconstruction to speed up their work. Authorities have also made it clear that delays or negligence in implementing flood-response measures will be dealt with strictly.The latest review comes as Assam continues to move from immediate flood relief towards damage assessment, restoration and rehabilitation, with the administration focusing on completing the remaining surveys and ensuring that assistance reaches eligible families.
