Heavy rains in India’s northeast have caused massive flooding and landslides, resulting in at least 16 deaths and displacing over 300,000 people. The Indian army and air force are conducting rescue operations, including saving fishermen stranded on a small island in the Brahmaputra River. The river, known for its annual overflow, has become even more treacherous due to increased rainfall this year. Landslides in Arunachal Pradesh have destroyed roads, while flooding in Sikkim, Manipur, and Meghalaya has swept away roads and bridges. More than 80 people have died across six northeastern states due to the natural disasters.
In Assam, animals in the Kaziranga National Park, including endangered one-horned Rhinos, are moving to higher ground to escape the floods. The park rangers are monitoring the animals’ movements to ensure their safety. The region is prone to landslides and floods during the June-September monsoon season, with Assam being particularly vulnerable due to intense rain and floods caused by climate change. According to a 2021 report, India’s northeast is considered one of the world’s most vulnerable regions to climate change. The ongoing disasters highlight the urgent need for climate action to protect the people and wildlife in the region.
Photo credit
www.nbcnews.com