Tripura has been declared a “Natural Calamity Affected Area” after continuous heavy rainfall from August 19 to 23, 2024, led to severe flooding across the state.
Despite water levels in the Gomati River at Sonamura beginning to recede, the situation remains critical, with water still above flood levels.
According to a Government press release, the devastating floods have resulted in the loss of 32 lives, with two individuals injured and one person reported missing.
The state government, in response to the severe damage to life, public, and private properties, has mobilized relief efforts on an unprecedented scale.
A total of 346 relief camps are currently operational across the state, providing shelter to approximately 52,906 displaced individuals.
Authorities are ensuring the distribution of essential supplies, including food, drinking water, and medical aid, and are taking measures to maintain hygiene and prevent the spread of waterborne diseases in the camps.
An Inter-Ministerial Central Team (IMCT) led by B.C. Joshi, Joint Secretary of the Ministry of Home Affairs, has arrived in Tripura to assess the damage.
The team has already begun on-the-spot evaluations in the severely affected South Tripura and Gomati districts, supported by the District Disaster Management Authorities.
Health services are being heavily deployed to mitigate the impact of the floods, with doctors making 1,271 visits to various relief camps to treat over 37,500 individuals.
In addition, 1,867 health camps have been conducted, providing health check-ups to nearly 44,000 people.
The Department of Drinking Water and Sanitation has issued comprehensive Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for solid waste and wastewater management and safe sanitation practices to curb the risk of disease outbreaks and aid in post-flood recovery.
Power supply has been restored to 100% in 18 power divisions, while restoration efforts continue in the six remaining divisions, with completion expected within the next few days, provided water levels decrease.
Schools and Anganwadi Centers (AWCs) are gradually reopening, though some remain closed due to inundation.
The Labour Department has announced a one-time financial assistance of Rs. 4,000 for each of the 42,981 registered construction workers affected by the floods, providing much-needed relief to those who have lost their livelihoods.
A dedicated committee has been formed to work with NGOs in coordinating relief efforts, ensuring that donated materials are distributed effectively to those in need. The state government has urged citizens and organizations to contribute usable and sanitized items to support the flood-affected population.
As relief efforts continue, the state remains on high alert, closely monitoring the situation and ensuring that the affected communities receive the support and assistance they need during this challenging time.