New Delhi: The Northeast states of Sikkim and Assam, which have been severely affected by floods this year, will receive substantial support from the union budget 2024.
Union finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced special financial allocations to aid flood management and recovery efforts in Sikkim and Assam during her budget presentation.
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More than 1.6 million people in the Northeast have been impacted by the devastating floods.
Assam, in particular, faces annual flooding caused by the Brahmaputra River and its tributaries, many of which originate outside India.
“We will provide assistance to Assam for flood management and related projects,” Sitharaman said, allocating Rs 11,500 crores for these efforts.
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Assam chief minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has expressed his gratitude and appreciation for the special assistance allocated to Assam for flood relief under the union budget 2024.
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CM Himanta Biswa Sarma highlighted various aspects of the budget that he believes will significantly benefit Assam and contribute to India’s overall growth.
“We are extremely grateful for the special assistance Assam will receive under this budget to help meet the challenges posed by floods,” CM Himanta Biswa Sarma said.
Sikkim has also been hit hard, recently witnessing catastrophic flash floods and landslides that caused widespread destruction.
“Our government will provide assistance to Sikkim,” Sitharaman added.
In October last year, Sikkim faced a significant crisis when flash floods triggered by the bursting of Lhonak Lake caused extensive damage along the Teesta River.
The floods swept away six essential bridges in North Sikkim, including the critical Chungthang bridge, severing communication lines to Lachen and Lachung valley.
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The army infrastructure also suffered substantial losses.
In 2024, relentless heavy rains continued to trigger flash floods and landslides, causing widespread damage and chaos across the region.
The North Eastern Council expressed gratitude, stating that the special financial package will significantly enhance the recovery process, restore vital infrastructure, and boost economic growth in the region.