Normal life was affected in Tripura owing to heavy rainfall coupled with strong winds caused by Cyclone Remal on Monday. Under the influence of Cyclone Remal, torrential rains lashed out across the State along with strong winds causing flooding in several low-lying areas.
Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs Minister Sushanta Chowdhury, in a press conference on Tuesday, said, a total of 467 houses were damaged and 746 took shelter in relief camps across the State.
Heavy Rainfall Triggers Need for Relief Camps
Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs Minister Sushanta Chowdhury, in a press conference on Tuesday, revealed the extent of the damage. With incessant rainfall average exceeding 215.5 mm in the last 24 hours, Unakoti district bore the brunt, recording a staggering 252.4 mm and South Tripura district minimum 168 mm downpour.
The Minister said, the Cyclone Remal caused widespread damages in the State. He said, incessant rains flooded several areas which necessitated the opening of 15 relief camps across the state. Chowdhury informed the media that 746 people displaced from their homes took shelter in these camps. Water-level at most of the rivers in the State also swelled.
Storm Leaves Path of Destruction
Cyclone Remal’s fury wasn’t limited to heavy rains. The storm also caused significant damage to power infrastructure and property. Minister Chowdhury reported that 467 houses were damaged by the strong winds. While Power supply bore the brunt, the agricultural sector too, suffered extensive losses.
Government Mobilizes Rescue and Relief Efforts
In view of the emerging situation, the Tripura government has initiated steps to restore normalcy. A meeting chaired by the Chief Secretary charted out a response plan. District administrations, along with SDRF, NDRF, Fire Service, State administration, and Revenue Department personnel, are working tirelessly on rescue and relief operations. Immediate assistance is being provided to those affected.
Restoring Normalcy: A Concerted Effort
Uprooted trees have blocked roads in several areas and also disrupted power supply. Administration officials are working round the clock to clear the blockages and restore normalcy. The Water Resources Department is closely monitoring the rising water levels of rivers and the condition of embankments, Chowdhury asserted.
Sushanta visits Remal affected areas
Sushanta Chowdhury visited Cyclone Remal affected areas of Jirania and Ranirbazar on Tuesday to assess the damage. In a social media post, the Minister said, “I interacted with the Remal affected people and extended a helping hand to them. He was accompanied by SDM Jirania Santi Ranjan Chakma, vice chairman of Ranirbazar Municipal Council Prabir Kumar Das, vice Chairman of Jirania Panchayat Samiti and others.
(Tripura, Tripura News)