Agartala, Aug 19: The devastating floods of August 2024 in Tripura are once again in public memory as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued fresh warnings of heavy rainfall for the state.
Last year around this time in August, continuous downpour had submerged vast stretches of Tripura, including the capital Agartala, triggering severe flooding.
IMD Forecast for August 21–25
On Tuesday, the IMD forecast heavy to very heavy rainfall across the state between August 21 and 25 and issued separate alerts for different districts.
According to the bulletin, on August 21, 22, and 23, heavy to very heavy rainfall measuring between 7 cm and 20 cm is expected at isolated places in South Tripura district (Orange alert). Other districts are likely to witness heavy showers ranging between 7 cm and 11 cm.
For August 24 and 25, the forecast warns of heavy to very heavy rainfall in South, Gomati, and Sepahijala districts (Orange alert), while the rest of the state has been placed under Yellow alert with the possibility of heavy showers.
Districts on High Alert
Officials confirmed that all districts have activated precautionary measures, including strengthening emergency operation centres, mobilizing community volunteers, and checking boats and rescue equipment.
Residents in flood-prone areas are particularly alert. “Last year’s devastating flood has made everyone more cautious. Authorities and people alike are expected to be better prepared this time to reduce damage,” said a local from flood-prone Pratapgarh area in Agartala.
Flashback to August 2024 Flood
The August 2024 flood inflicted severe destruction, claiming at least 31 lives, damaging crops and property, and disrupting essential services. The state government had opened 492 relief camps, providing shelter to nearly 72,000 people, and arranged for medical support to the displaced.
| Also Read last year’s report: Death Toll Rises to 31 as Floods Ravage Tripura: Central Team to Assess Situation |
Power and water supply were badly hit, with departments working around the clock to restore normalcy.
| Also Read : Agartala Deluged (2024) |
To assess the damage, an Inter-Ministerial Central Team (IMCT) led by B.C. Joshi, Joint Secretary (Foreigners Division), Ministry of Home Affairs, had visited the flood-affected areas in Tripura.
