Tripura battered by nor'wester: One dead, 800 houses impacted, relief efforts underway
The recent nor'wester that struck seven districts of Tripura on Sunday caused significant destruction, impacting around 800 houses and disrupting normal life. The storm, which brought thunderstorms, hailstorms, heavy rain, and lightning, affected 17 Sub-Divisions across the seven districts, except for North Tripura District. The aftermath of the storm included extensive damage to homes, with 62 houses completely destroyed, 161 severely damaged, and 577 partially damaged.
In addition to the damage to houses, the storm also led to blockages in 42 locations due to fallen trees, electric poles, and wires. The power supply was disrupted in 205 areas, further exacerbating the situation for residents. Tragically, one person lost their life due to a lightning strike in Udaipur under the Gomati district. Another death in Kakraban is currently under verification to determine the cause.
Authorities from the Revenue (Relief, Rehabilitation, and Disaster Management) department addressed the media in a press conference regarding the response to the disaster. Brijesh Pandey, Secretary to the Revenue department, stated that the District Disaster Management Authorities have initiated immediate measures to mitigate the impact of the storm, in accordance with the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) and guidelines of the Election Commission of India.
To aid in the recovery efforts, quick response teams have been deployed to clear fallen trees and restore power lines. The preliminary damage assessment has been completed, with interim relief already provided to over 50 affected families at a rate of Rs. 4000-5000 per family. The process for providing immediate relief assistance to all affected families is expected to be completed within the next one or two days.
Efforts to restore power supply in the affected areas are underway, with most locations already having their electricity restored by the Tripura State Electricity Corporation Limited (TSECL). NDRF teams were also deployed to clear roads in Champamura of Sepahijala district, where road blockades had occurred.
A relief camp has been set up at Teliamura RD Block to provide shelter to seven families, including 23 individuals. Additionally, the District Authorities of Khowai are providing immediate relief to these families. The Secretary assured that after a detailed verification and assessment of damages, further assistance would be provided as per the norms of the State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF).
To support relief and rehabilitation efforts, the government has made an adequate fund amounting to Rs. 55.38 crore available to all District Authorities. The Revenue department had taken proactive steps to prepare for such situations, holding a state-level preparatory meeting with all District Authorities and Line Departments on March 2. Subsequently, the District Authorities reviewed their preparedness and took necessary steps to handle the situation effectively.
Meanwhile, Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha visited the storm-hit Lembutali village of Sepahijala district on Monday to assess the damage and meet with affected individuals. The government is working diligently to provide support and assistance to all those affected by the storm.