Disaster management team rescues flood-hit Assam

GUWAHATI - Authorities in Assam summoned teams of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) to rescue stranded residents in flood hit areas of Guwahati.

Incessant pre-monsoon showers, which continued for the third successive day on Tuesday lashed several parts of the State, affecting normal life.

The NDRF personnel were seen conducting series of rescue missions and save people with the help of rubber boats and rafts.

Anil Chauhan, Assistant Commandant of the 1st Battalion of NDRF from Patgaon said that so far they have rescued around 150 persons from various localities of the city and nearby areas.

“We have rescued 150 people, school going children, office goers and efforts are on to rescue more people. In such a scenario, the NDRF is on alert and ever ready to help people,” Chauhan added.

Meanwhile, the affected residents blamed the poor drainage system for the recurring floods in and around Guwahati.

“Due to the floods, it has become difficult for us to come out of homes. All the shops are closed. Even the drinking water has become polluted due to the floods. Every year we face the same problem due to improper drainage system,” lamented Hemant Baruah.

Guwahati recorded 80.4 mm rainfall since Monday (April 19). Meteorologists have forecast more rain accompanied by thundershowers on Wednesday and Thursday. (ANI)