GUWAHATI, July 30: Assam Minister Rameswar Teli on Thursday said the flood death toll in the state has reached around 70 to 75, warning that the number could increase as search and rescue teams continue operations in areas covered by heavy deposits of mud and debris.
Speaking about the flood situation, Teli said inundation affected nearly 30 tea gardens across Assam, of which 11 suffered severe damage. He added that the assessment was based on reports submitted by the Labour Commissioner.
The minister said the current casualty figure remains provisional, as rescue personnel are still searching affected locations where large volumes of mud and debris carried from neighbouring Nagaland may have buried people.
Teli said relief and rescue operations are continuing across the flood-hit districts, with the government working to ensure uninterrupted supplies of food and other essential items for displaced residents.
He added that the Indian Army has been deployed to assist in rescue and relief efforts, while state agencies are coordinating evacuation operations, the distribution of relief materials and restoration of essential services in the affected areas.
