Northeast Desk, 20th August: Torrential rainfall in Tripura has resulted in devastating floods, leading to the tragic loss of four lives and forcing over 500 residents to seek refuge in relief shelters across the state. The incessant downpour has severely impacted several districts, leaving a trail of destruction and prompting urgent rescue efforts.
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the southern parts of Tripura have experienced particularly heavy rainfall, with Bagafa and Belonia recording 375 mm, and Amarpur in Gomati District receiving 307 mm. The capital city Agartala was also significantly affected, with over 150 mm of rainfall, leading to widespread flooding.
The four casualties occurred due to landslides in different regions: Amarpur in Gomati District, Santirbazar in South District, and Mungiakami in Khowai District. In addition to the loss of lives, over 20 houses have been damaged, exacerbating the crisis.
Dr. Sarat Das, Disaster Management Project Officer, informed that the heavy rains had caused water levels in major rivers like Gomati, Muhuri, and Haora to rise dangerously. The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), Tripura State Rifles, and Tripura Police have been deployed to conduct rescue operations. Over 15 relief camps have been established, where more than 500 displaced residents are currently sheltered.
Residents shared harrowing accounts of the flooding. Rakesh Roshan, from Chandrapur near Agartala, recounted how the water levels rose alarmingly after midnight on August 19, forcing him and others to evacuate to a nearby government school. “Young people, along with the NDRF, joined forces in the rescue efforts,” he said.
Nayama Begum, who fled with her six children, described waking up to rapidly rising water at 2 AM. “All our belongings are submerged. We rushed to the shelter, but the elders are still at home and will join us soon. We face this problem every year,” she lamented.
Chief Minister Manik Saha has directed authorities to prioritize public safety and minimize the impact of the flooding. He took to Facebook to inform the public about the relief measures and the government’s commitment to ensuring the safety of the affected population. “The district administration has been instructed to take immediate action,” Saha stated.
With rescue operations in full swing, efforts continue to safeguard the lives and well-being of those affected by this natural calamity.
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