DIBRUGARH, July 17 - In the aftermath of two consecutive waves of recent massive deluge, deaths of several cattle have been reported from forest villages like Raidang, Rangmala and Gereki of Chabua revenue circle.
Several farmers who were largely engaged in agriculture and dairy farming in the area have lost their cows and bulls due to starvation and other diseases.
As flood waters receded from the area, people began to witness dead animals lying hither and thither in the area on Friday. As per an assessment done by the Veterinary department, deaths of at least 294 cattle have been recorded from the area.
The affected farmers who also lost their land and houses to the Dibru and Brahmaputra river in the flood and erosion, have been left with no source of income now.
People in the area are now worried as entire grazing spaces in the area are now carpeted with deposits of thick layers of silt. For lack of fodder and grazing spaces, farmers in the area said more animals in the area could meet a similar fate.
District veterinary officer Dr Apurba Saikia told The Assam Tribune that an assessment was carried out in the area and the report would be submitted to the Disaster Management Authority here for compensation and other relief measures. So far, he said that only cows and bulls were found dead. On the need for supply of fodder to the farmers, Dr Saikia said that on request supply of fodder can be arranged.
�Those in need of fodder can make the request and we will place it before the authority for consideration,� said the district veterinary officer.
