Agartala, Aug 23: The devastating impact of relentless rains, floods, and landslides in Tripura has resulted in a tragic rise in the death toll to 24, with initial estimates indicating a Rs. 5,000-crore loss across the state, a senior official confirmed on Friday.
During a press briefing, Brijesh Pandey, Secretary to the Revenue Department, stated that the situation is showing signs of improvement as water levels in most rivers have receded below the danger mark.However, the calamity devastated the state.
Since August 19, authorities have established 558 relief camps, providing shelter to approximately 1.28 lakh individuals who have been forced to leave their homes following massive flood. The district administrations are working round the clock to ensure that those affected receive necessary supplies, including food, potable water, and medical care.
Speaking to media at the State Emergency Operation Centre at the New Capital Complex, he detailed the extensive damage caused by intense rainfall and subsequent flooding and landslides.
He emphasized that while the floodwaters have wreaked havoc on the lives of thousands, the swift actions taken by the government have mitigated the extent of the destruction and ensured timely relief for those in need.
The devastation has been particularly severe in the districts of Gomati, South Tripura, Unakoti, and West Tripura. Although rainfall intensity decreased on August 23, the state remains on high alert with further rain predicted in the coming days.
He informed that 24 individuals have lost their lives, with two persons suffered injuries and two others are still missing.
In response to the crisis, six teams each from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) have been deployed to assist in rescue missions. Additionally, helicopters have been dispatched to deliver essential supplies to isolated and at-risk communities, with more than 11,000 food packets distributed to date.
The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecasted light to moderate rainfall across various parts of the state over the next two days, keeping the state on edge.
Public Works Department Secretary Kiran Gitte highlighted ongoing efforts to repair the cracks on National Highway-08 at Mungiakami, ensuring that fuel tankers and other essential vehicles can reach Agartala via Ambassa, Kamalpur, and Khowai.Furthermore, special medical camps are being organized in the flood-stricken areas to address the health needs of the affected population.
Also present at the press conference were Abhishek Singh, Secretary to the Power Department, and Sharat Kumar Das, State Project Officer of Disaster Management, who underscored the coordinated efforts of various government agencies in responding to the crisis.
