Northeast Desk, 23rd August: The Tripura government has implemented vehicle restrictions on National Highway 08 (NH-08) and surrounding areas following significant damage caused by continuous heavy rainfall and flooding since August 19. The affected zones include a critical section of NH-08 in the Khowai district and embankments along the Katakhal and Howrah rivers in the West District.
NH-08, often referred to as Tripura’s “lifeline” as it connects the state to mainland India, has developed alarming cracks, some as wide as 9 feet, near the 47-mile mark. In response, Khowai District Magistrate Chandni Chandran issued an order citing the extreme safety hazards and imposing strict traffic restrictions until necessary repairs are completed.
“Taking into account this highly unsafe condition, in pursuance of power conferred under section 34 along with section 26(2) of the Disaster Management Act, 2005, the following restriction is hereby imposed,” the order states, emphasizing the urgency of the situation.
Chandran warned that non-compliance with the directive could lead to penalties under Section 51 of the Disaster Management Act.
In parallel, West District Magistrate Vishal Kumar has issued a separate order prohibiting heavy motor vehicles from traveling on the embankments of the Katakhal and Howrah rivers until August 30. Kumar’s directive, also enforced under the Disaster Management Act, authorizes the police to seize any vehicles that violate this restriction.
“No heavy motor vehicles shall ply in the embankment area of Katakhal and Howrah River till 30th August, 2024. In case of violation, the police officers are directed to immediately seize the vehicle and present the same before the undersigned,” Kumar’s order specifies.
These measures are part of the state government’s ongoing efforts to manage the aftermath of the floods and ensure the safety of residents and infrastructure.
Read More: Tripura CM Manik Saha Oversees Emergency Response Amid Devastating Floods in Gomati District