BADARPUR, July 21 ? The flood situation in the three Barak Valley districts of Cachar, Karimganj and Hailakandi has turned critical with many areas including Badarpur town submerged by the floodwaters, owing to a breach in a dam in the area. All government, non-government offices, schools and colleges, banks, business establishments, ASEB and ASTC offices, Railway colonies, etc have been severely affected. Besides, several villages and paddy fields within Badarpur circle have also been hit by the floodwaters. The floods have rendered over fifty thousand people homeless, official sources said. At present, the victims have taken shelter at Badarpur Nabin Chandra College, hotels, offices, etc.
Till date, three persons, including two children have been killed in Badarpur. The Army and the BSF have been put on alert to tackle the situation here and in Karimganj as well. Meanwhile, the entire Silchar town is submerged under the waters following the rising water levels of river Barak and its tributaries. Road and rail communication from the town to Badarpur, Hailakandi, Kumbhirgram and Jowai-Badarpur and Lumding-Badarpur hill sections has been badly disrupted following the devastating floods and landslides.
In Karimganj, the water-levels of the Kushiara, Longai and Singla rivers have crossed the danger levels. Many places of Karimganj town and villages have been affected by the flood waters. The situation in Hailakandi is no different with relief and rescue operations being undertaken by the district administration.