Flash floods displace over 100 families in South Tripura; schools shut, relief camps set up

Flash floods in South Tripura district have rendered over 100 families homeless after their dwellings were inundated. Meanwhile, all schools and anganwadi centres in the district will remain closed today as a precautionary measure.

The district administration has asked people living in low-lying areas to remain alert in the wake of the flash flood caused by incessant rain on Tuesday.

The water level in Muhuri River was flowing above the danger level (15.70 metres), flooding both sides of the embankment.

"Due to incessant rainfall since Monday night, many low-lying areas in Belonia and Santirbazar subdivisions were inundated by floodwaters. As many as 289 people of 118 families have taken shelter in 10 relief camps," South Tripura District Magistrate (DM) Muhammad Sajad told PTI.

The water level in Muhuri was flowing at 15.70 metres, which is a bit above the danger level, but the intensity of rain has reduced substantially over the past few hours, he said.

Sajad said people living in low-lying areas were exhorted to remain alert for safe evacuation if the need arises.

"The disaster management teams and civil officials are ready to render any help and the situation is being constantly monitored," he said.

Sajad said all the schools and anganwadi centres shall remain closed on Wednesday in the wake of the flash flood.

"Chief Minister Manik Saha enquired about the latest flood situation in the district and asked us to take all possible measures to help the affected people," he added.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued an 'orange alert' (be prepared) for South Tripura district, predicting moderate to heavy rainfall, and 'yellow alert' (be aware) for Gomati and Sepahijala districts for Wednesday.