Amit Shah calls CM Sarma and assures him of the Centre’s full support

New Delhi (India), September 9 (ANI): Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Wednesday spoke to Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on phone and assured the state government of his full support in carrying out rescue operations following a boating accident in Jorhat, the Assam Chief Minister’s Office (CMO) said.

He also said that in addition to central agencies such as the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), the army would also be deployed if the situation required it.

“Deeply shocked to learn about the tragic boating accident in Assam. Spoke to CM Shri @himantabiswa, the state administration is doing all possible to rescue the people. We are continuously monitoring the situation. We have also been assured of full support from the Central Government,” Shah had tweeted earlier.

Biswa thanked the Union Minister for his help.

“Adarniya HM Sri @AmitShah kindly called to enquire about the accident at Nimati Ghat and to update on the rescue operations and the condition of those rescued so far. He said the Central government is ready to provide all possible help. We are grateful to him,” Biswa tweeted.

The Prime Minister also announced that a woman had died, while at least 42 people had been rescued and the capsized boat had been located 1.5 kilometers from the accident site.

“Two boats collided and one of them capsized. Currently, it is difficult to ascertain the number of people on board. However, 42 people were rescued and one woman died. 4 people are reported missing but the full report will come in 2-3 hours,” Sarma said.

On Wednesday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had already spoken to the Chief Minister of Assam on the phone to enquire about the boat accident near Nimati Ghat in Jorhat.

The Prime Minister expressed deep concern over the accident and assured the Central government of all-out support in the rescue operation. He said he stands with the people of Assam in this hour of need, the CMO said. (ANI)