Flooding is a recurring part of the human life in Assam; almost 40% of the state is classified as flood-prone by India’s National Flood Commission. Assam lies on the vast floodplain of the Brahmaputra, which flows down from the Himalayas and is fed by more than 50 tributaries. During the annual monsoon, heavy rain across the region increases the volume of floodwater in the river. As it flows across Assam’s flat plains, it deposits large amounts of sand and silt, reducing the river’s capacity to carry water and increasing the likelihood of flooding.
A sudden rush of water was heard by the 18-year-old girl named “Patro” as masses started shouting. “Within no time, shallow water had entered our house,” . “We had a television, a cupboard and a sofa. Nothing was left. We couldn’t even save a glass to drink water from; the floods took everything from us.”
Environment experts say flooding has worsened over time because of upstream deforestation, ageing embankments and heavier rainfall driven by climate change.
