New Delhi

In the wake of devastating floods in Assam, Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi on Monday called for establishing a robust system that prioritises scientific prevention, early warning mechanisms and rehabilitation, so that people do not have to face such tragedies year after year.

The death toll in this year's floods in Assam climbed to 68 while over 5.24 lakh people remained affected across five districts despite an overall improvement in the situation, officials said on Monday.

In a post in Hindi on X, Gandhi said, "The news of the loss of lives in the devastating floods in Assam is deeply saddening. I extend my heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families. My deepest sympathies are with the lakhs of people affected by this disaster."

It is expected that the state and central governments will spare no effort in the relief and rescue operations for the affected people, the Congress leader said.

Floods occur every year, causing immense loss of life and property and uprooting many families, Gandhi pointed out.

"The time has come for us to establish a robust and permanent system to tackle the flood menace. A system that prioritises scientific prevention, early warning mechanisms, strong infrastructure and rehabilitation -- so that people do not have to face such tragedies year after year," Gandhi said.

Altogether 354 relief camps and aid distribution centres were operating in four districts, taking care of 37,724 displaced people, according to officials.

Multiple agencies, including the Army, NDRF, SDRF, Fire and Emergency Service and police, were engaged in the rescue and relief operations, they added.

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Embankments, roads, bridges and other infrastructure suffered damage in various districts of the state.