Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha confirmed on Thursday that National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams have arrived in the state, bringing essential relief materials and disaster management equipment to assist in flood relief operations. The state has been grappling with severe flooding since Sunday, which has claimed the lives of at least 10 individuals, while one person remains missing. Over 32,000 residents have been displaced, taking shelter in 330 relief camps amid ongoing heavy rainfall.
According to Saha, the state government is working tirelessly to address the situation. He shared that NDRF teams had landed at Maharaja Bir Bikram Manikya Bahadur Airport in Agartala and were being rapidly deployed to flood-affected regions to provide much-needed assistance to those in distress.
The Chief Minister also spoke with the Union Home Minister to brief him on the grim situation in Tripura. The minister assured Saha that eleven additional NDRF teams would be deployed to the state, along with helicopters for airlifting stranded residents. More boats are also being sent to support the rescue operations. Saha expressed his gratitude for the immediate support from the central government during this time of crisis.
The Union Home Minister reaffirmed the central government's commitment to supporting Tripura. He emphasized that the government is doing everything possible to assist the local administration in their relief and rescue efforts.
The ongoing excessive rainfall since Sunday has caused water levels in major rivers to surge beyond the danger mark, resulting in widespread flooding across many areas. The state has also experienced around 1,900 landslides, leading to road closures and significant disruption to daily life.
In light of the heavy rains, a red alert has been issued for the West Tripura and Sepahijala districts. Rescue and relief operations are being conducted by various agencies, including the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), NDRF, and central paramilitary forces.
Addressing the media, Saha described the flood as "unprecedented" and affirmed that district officials have been instructed to extend every possible support to affected residents. The state government remains vigilant and is closely monitoring the evolving situation.
Tripura Faces Flood Crisis: CM Seeks More NDRF Teams, Schools Closed for 2 Days