Northeast Desk, 25th August: The recent floods in Tripura have plunged the state into a severe agricultural crisis, claiming 24 lives and causing widespread destruction to crops and infrastructure. In response, the All India Kisan Sabha’s Tripura State Committee has pledged support to affected families and is calling for immediate government intervention.
Pabitra Kar, Secretary of the Tripura State Kisan Sabha, reported extensive damage across several districts, including Gomati, South Tripura, Unakoti, North Tripura, Khowai, Dhalai, and Sepahijala. The floods have decimated Aman paddy, vegetables, and Jhum crops, with early estimates indicating damage to 68,826 hectares of agricultural land, affecting over 141,816 farmers.
The Kisan Sabha estimates the crop losses at approximately Rs 550 crore. Kar urged the central government to expedite compensation for the affected farmers and to provide free distribution of essential farming supplies like seeds, fertilizers, and pesticides to help farmers recover. He also stressed the need for immediate action to remove flood-deposited silt and sand from agricultural lands.
The Indian Air Force has stepped in to assist with relief efforts, deploying Mi-17 and ALH helicopters to distribute aid. As of August 24, over 4,000 food packets have been air-dropped to stranded locals in the hardest-hit areas, and a total of 28 tons of relief material has been airlifted.
The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) has also been actively involved, with 11 teams deployed across Tripura. On August 23, NDRF rescuers successfully evacuated 125 people and recovered one deceased individual from various affected areas.
State officials report that, in addition to the 24 fatalities, two people were injured, and two others remain missing. The floods have severely damaged physical infrastructure, including roads, power lines, and buildings. To accommodate the displaced residents, 558 relief camps have been set up since the flooding began on August 19.
As floodwaters begin to recede, there is growing concern about the potential spread of waterborne diseases. The Kisan Sabha has called on the government to instruct health centres to take preventive measures to protect against these emerging health risks.
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