Tripura floods: 4 dead, over 500 displaced as heavy rain causes severe flooding

A total of four people died and more than 500 people have been forced to take refuge in relief shelters across Tripura after heavy and incessant rainfall led to severe flooding in several areas.

According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), parts of South Tripura have recorded alarming levels of rainfall. Bagafa and Belonia received 375 mm, while Amarpur in Gomati District recorded 307 mm. The capital city Agartala, too, saw over 150 mm of rainfall, leaving many areas submerged.

The people lost their lives due to landslides in Amarpur in Gomati District, Santirbazar in South District, and Mungiakami in Khowai District. Over 20 houses have also been damaged in the state.

“Since last night, the heavy rain has significantly impacted many areas, leading to rising water levels in major rivers like Gomati, Muhuri, and Haora. We have immediately deployed National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) personnel, along with Tripura State Rifles jawans and Tripura Police for rescue operations," Disaster Management Project Officer Dr Sarat Das told India Today NE.

"Many parts of the state, including sections of Agartala, are underwater as rivers continue to flow at dangerous levels. Over 15 relief camps have been opened so far, where more than 500 people have sought shelter,” Das added.  

 

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Rakesh Roshan, a resident of Chandrapur near Agartala, said, “The water levels began rising on Monday (August 19) evening, but after midnight, it surged suddenly. By 4 am, we had to evacuate and take shelter in a nearby government school. Many people were caught off guard while sleeping. Young people, along with the NDRF, joined forces in the rescue efforts. One boat has already arrived for evacuations.”

Another affected resident, Nayama Begum, who fled to a shelter with her six children, said, “When I woke up at around 2 AM, I saw the water rising rapidly. All our belongings are submerged. We rushed to the shelter house, but the elders are still at home and will be joining us soon. We face this problem every year.”

Chief Minister Manik Saha took to Facebook to direct the authorities to prioritise public safety and minimise the impact of the flooding. 

“Due to intense rainfall, several areas in South Tripura and other districts are experiencing severe flooding. Relief centers have been set up to assist those affected. The district administration has been instructed to take immediate action to prioritize public safety and mitigate the impact,” Saha wrote on Facebook.

Rescue operations across the state are underway.