Bihubor, August 15: Life remains far from normal in Bihubor, one of Assam’s worst flood-affected areas, as receding waters have left thick layers of mud and silt across homes, roads and courtyards.
Although floodwaters have withdrawn from some areas, the accumulated silt has created a fresh challenge for residents attempting to clean their homes and rebuild their lives. Several houses remain badly damaged, forcing families to live in cramped conditions or makeshift shelters along roadsides.
In some households, 10 to 12 family members are sharing a single room. Residents said they were struggling to clear their homes while dealing with the loss of household belongings, livestock, important documents and livelihoods.
Local resident Indu Devi said her family lost almost everything after floodwaters suddenly entered their home. While food and other essential supplies are now available, she said most of their belongings were destroyed, leaving around 10 family members to live together in one room.
In several parts of Bihubor, floodwaters have not completely receded even after weeks. Some residents said they have been unable to return home for nearly 20 to 25 days.
Binita Gogol said floodwaters entered her house on July 20 and had still not completely receded. She said livestock, household belongings and documents related to her children’s education were destroyed.
Transportation remains another major challenge, with residents in some affected areas having to travel one to two kilometres by boat to reach their homes or access essential services.
Another resident, Joon Dekha, said her family managed to escape the sudden rise in water but lost most of their belongings. With her daughter studying in Class 10 and son in Class 5, she said she was worried about continuing their education while her husband worked as a daily-wage labourer.
The devastation has left many families facing an uncertain future even as the immediate threat from rising waters begins to ease.
Assam has recorded more than 100 flood-related deaths, while thousands of people have been displaced across several districts amid the ongoing flood situation.
