Floods wreak havoc in Tripura, 24 dead, 1.28 lakh hit

Agartala: The flood crisis in Tripura has claimed the lives of at least 24 people, with thousands displaced and facing damage to their homes and livelihoods.

The Tripura government has launched a massive relief and rescue operation to assist those affected by the unprecedented flooding.

Over 1.28 lakh people have been sheltered in 558 relief camps across the state, where they are receiving essential supplies such as food, water, and medical assistance. Communications have been restored to many parts of the affected districts.

Heavy rainfall over the past week has inundated several districts, including Gomati, South Tripura, Unakoti, and West Tripura. While the intensity of rainfall has decreased in recent days, the situation remains critical in many areas.

Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha conducted an aerial survey and visited flood-affected areas on Thursday, assessing the damage and overseeing relief efforts.

The revenue secretary, Brijesh Pandey, briefed the media on the situation, stating that water levels have receded below the danger mark in most rivers except Gomati.

Preliminary estimates suggest that the flood damage could exceed Rs. 5000 crore, with widespread destruction to infrastructure, agriculture, and property.

Rescue operations are underway in Gomati and South Tripura districts, with NDRF and SDRF teams working tirelessly to reach those in need. Helicopters have been deployed to deliver relief supplies to marooned areas.

The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast light to moderate rainfall in the coming days, offering some respite but also raising concerns about potential further flooding.

The Tripura government has urged people to remain vigilant and follow safety guidelines.