Tripura flooding: Heavy rains cause widespread damage; CM focuses on rescue operations

Over the past two days, Tripura has experienced severe flooding due to heavy rainfall, leading to significant damage across several districts. Chief Minister Manik Saha has emphasized that the administration is prioritizing relief and rescue operations to manage the crisis effectively. The state government is in continuous communication with the central government, providing updates on the evolving situation.

Initial reports highlight extensive damage caused by the floods, impacting homes, livestock, roads, electricity infrastructure, and agricultural crops. The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), and local authorities are actively engaged in rescue operations to assist those stranded by the rising waters.

In a statement on X, CM Saha detailed the severity of the situation, noting that the recent rains have led to flooding in multiple districts. The administration is focused on relief efforts and is maintaining close contact with the central government. He reported that, alongside the destruction of property, the floods have also affected roads, electricity, and agriculture.

Efforts are underway to evacuate citizens from vulnerable areas, especially those near riverbanks, to safer locations. CM Saha has urged residents to avoid spreading rumors and to cooperate with the administration. He called for patience and courage, emphasizing the importance of community support and collective resilience in this challenging time.

Describing the situation as unprecedented, CM Saha revealed that the rainfall in the South district reached 375 mm. He noted that such extreme weather events have never occurred in the past, further complicating the response efforts.

In a conversation with Union Home Minister Amit Shah, CM Saha briefed him on the severe flood conditions and requested additional NDRF teams to bolster the response efforts. The Home Minister assured full support and CM Saha expressed gratitude for the assistance provided.

The Chief Minister also provided an update on the ongoing response efforts. All district administration officials, along with NDRF, SDRF, and local authorities, are on high alert and working diligently to support flood-affected communities. He appealed to social organizations, NGOs, and citizens to stay vigilant and contribute to relief efforts, stressing that every bit of assistance can significantly impact the overall response.

Tragically, the floods have also triggered landslides, resulting in fatalities. In one such incident in Devipur ADC village, three family members, Trisankar Chakma, his wife Ranjani Chakma (41 years), and their 12-year-old daughter Mita Chakma, lost their lives. Another family member was injured in the landslide caused by the incessant rains.

To address the situation, CM Saha convened a review meeting to assess the flood impact and discuss measures for managing and mitigating the disaster. He directed officials to ensure that all possible support and relief are provided to those affected by the floods.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecasted that heavy to very heavy rainfall will continue over Tripura for the next two days, indicating that the state may face further challenges in the coming days.