Assam floods affect 16 lakh people; Kaziranga National Park under water

FP Staff • July 27, 2016, 15:56:17 IST

Vast tracts of the park, home to the rare one-horned rhino, and another wildlife reserve were under water. Forest officials said they have found the remains of at least one rhino that had drowned in the flooding in the park

A forest guard stands to slow down vehicles on a flooded highway as animals cross the highway to take shelter on highlands in Kaziranga National Park, Assam. Vast tracts of the park, home to the rare one-horned rhino, and another wildlife reserve were under water. Forest officials said they have found the remains of at least one rhino that had drowned in the flooding in the park. AP

The current wave of flood has claimed 12 lives and affected nearly 16 lakh people across Assam, the state Assembly was informed on Wednesday. AP

Making a statement on the flood situation, Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal declared an ex-gratia of Rs four lakh to the families of each of the deceased and said the amount will be paid this week. AP

The government is closely monitoring the situation and has been holding regular discussions with officials of various departments, mainly those responsible for flood relief and rehabilitation. AP

A one horned Rhino is partially seen as it stands in the flood water at Kaziranga National Park, east of Gauhati, northeastern Assam. AP

Sonowal also informed about his discussion with Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh, who had on Tuesday assured all possible help from the Centre in tacking the problem. AP