In the Indian state of Assam, a dramatic rescue operation took place in the village of Charing in Sivasagar district after floods hit the region. The incident occurred just after midnight on 19 July, when 97-year-old Lokada Duarah became trapped in her flooded home. Her condition was critical as she was almost bedridden and unable to walk, requiring urgent intervention.
With no boat, rescue team, or neighbours available to offer help, three men had to organise themselves. The water in Baruah’s home reached around five feet, and the house was submerged beneath the surface. The water depth ranged between three and four feet, and the current was so strong that they moved extremely slowly.
To stabilise themselves in the rapid current, the rescuers held hands and used sticks for support. Lokada Duarah was carried on an improvised raft made from banana stalks. The journey through dangerous conditions was arduous, but the three men successfully reached a shelter camp located on the national highway.
The camp was situated away from the house in Charing village and served as a safe haven for those affected by the elements. Sivasagar district was one of the hardest-hit areas in this disaster. The floods affected nearly 1.2 million people across 25 districts, with 10 districts and 456 villages directly impacted.
The death toll has risen to 100, and more than 19,000 homes have been damaged. More than 75,000 people are currently staying in 252 relief camps, with a total of 52 relief camps established. The floods were particularly severe in parts of Upper Assam, where the population's situation is critical.
