Assam CM Empowers Forest Protection with New Boats; Urges Caution Amid Heavy Rains

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma delivered 20 inflatable rubber boats to the Kaziranga National Park authority to enhance anti-poaching efforts. He reviewed flood damage repairs and urged caution amid heavy rains in Guwahati. Floods have led to significant casualties, including 13 rhinos, in recent years.

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma delivered 20 inflatable rubber boats to Kaziranga National Park on Wednesday, at a ceremony in Bagori Range. The boats aim to empower the Forest Protection Force in preventing poaching and encroachment, fulfilling a request made during a June review meeting on the park's safety.

Sarma also inspected the Hatimura embankment breach at Kaliabor, commending the rapid restoration work which was completed in 26 days despite challenging conditions. He announced that all embankment breaches in Assam are now repaired.

As heavy rains hit Guwahati, Sarma urged residents to stay indoors and minimize vehicle use. In a social media post, he also advised avoiding Downtowon hospital areas on GS Road. Floods have claimed 880 lives in Assam between 2019 and July 2023, and 215 animals, including 13 one-horned rhinos, in Kaziranga National Park.

(With inputs from agencies.)