At least 34 people have lost their lives in India’s northeast after days of relentless rainfall triggered severe floods and landslides, with the region bracing for even more heavy downpours in the coming days.
The worst-hit states—Manipur, Sikkim, Meghalaya, and Assam—have seen rivers overflow, roads washed out, and entire communities submerged under rising waters. The Indian Meteorological Department has issued continued rain alerts, while rescue operations scramble to respond to the widespread destruction.
Tourists Stranded, Families Displaced
In Sikkim, over a thousand tourists were stranded in remote areas. Authorities began mass evacuation efforts on Monday, deploying helicopters and rescue personnel to reach those cut off by floodwaters. In Meghalaya, the Indian Army is leading operations to rescue more than 500 people trapped in flooded zones.
The situation is equally dire in Assam’s Silchar city, where residents waded through waist-deep water, and fallen trees blocked roads, delaying aid. One local, Sonu Devi, emotionally shared with ANI: “We are facing so many challenges. My child’s bed is submerged. We’ve been awake all night trying to stay safe.”
Bangladesh Also Reeling from the Impact
The neighboring country Bangladesh is suffering similar devastation. A tragic landslide in Sylhet killed four members of a single family, while hundreds of shelters have been set up in vulnerable hill districts including Rangamati, Bandarban, and Khagrachhari.
Authorities in both countries have issued red alerts, warning of further flash floods and landslides. Millions are at risk as heavy rainfall continues to batter the region—an all-too-familiar pattern in a part of the world increasingly vulnerable to extreme weather events.
Flooding: A Recurring Nightmare
Northeast India and Bangladesh are no strangers to flooding. Each year, the monsoon brings with it a cycle of destruction, washing away homes, livelihoods, and often, lives. But experts say the situation is worsening as climate change intensifies rainfall patterns and urban expansion clogs natural drainage systems.
Relief workers, government agencies, and international organizations are now racing against time to provide aid, rebuild damaged infrastructure, and prevent further loss of life.
This unfolding crisis is a stark reminder of the need for climate resilience and better disaster preparedness in the region.
