Assam Health Minister Visits Malaria-Affected Kokrajhar and Chirang Districts

Assam Health Minister Keshab Mahanta on November 28 visited the malaria-hit areas of Lung Sung near the Indo-Bhutan border in Kokrajhar district and neighboring Chirang district, as both regions grapple with a severe outbreak of the disease.

Kokrajhar has seen a dramatic rise in malaria cases this year. By November 25, 2024, the district had reported 2,096 cases, a sharp increase from 256 cases recorded in 2023. The outbreak has claimed seven lives in the past week, including a 4-year-old girl. Today, 46 new cases were detected in Lung Sung alone, underlining the urgency of the situation.

During his visit, Mahanta assured the public that the government is taking all necessary steps to address the outbreak. He stated that medicines and resources have been mobilized, and specialized doctors from Guwahati have already arrived in Kokrajhar to assist local healthcare teams.

Speaking to reporters, the minister acknowledged gaps in infrastructure but said plans are underway to resolve these challenges. He emphasized that health teams will work intensively over the next 15 days to contain the outbreak.

The government’s response comes amidst growing concern over the health crisis in the region, as residents call for swift action to prevent further loss of life.