Guwahati, Aug 24 (IANS): Assam will seek financial assistance of Rs.500 crore from the central government to repair the damage caused by the current wave of floods that has affected 18 districts in the state and over 6.5 lakh people, Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi said on Monday.

He said the flood situation has been improving in the state gradually.

"As of now, 1,071 villages in 14 districts are reeling under floods... flood waters have started receding in most of the places," Gogoi told newsmen on Monday.

Stating that Assam received 20 percent excess rainfall in the last few weeks, he said 2.13 lakh people were still living in 296 relief camps set up in six worst-affected districts.

"The inmates of the relief camps are likely to move to their homes soon. The meteorological department has forecast moderate to light rain in the days to come, which will improve the situation. Once the situation improves, the relief camp inmates will leave for their houses," he said.

"We are going to ask the central government to release funds for flood devastation to the tune of Rs.500 crore. This will be for immediate relief to meet the expenses to be incurred while repairing damaged roads, bridges and breaches in embankments," he said.