News Desk, Agartala: With monsoon intensifying across the northeast, Tripura is stepping up its flood preparedness efforts under the proactive leadership of Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha, who also heads the State Disaster Management Authority. The state is projecting confidence in facing any potential flood crisis, drawing from lessons of past experiences and significantly enhancing infrastructure, coordination, and manpower. The move comes amid severe flooding in neighbouring states like Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, and Sikkim, where thousands have been displaced and transport networks have been severely affected. Tripura itself has witnessed waterlogging in low-lying areas, with nearly 1,000 families currently sheltered in relief camps. In a bid to stay ahead of the crisis, senior officials—including Brijesh Pandey (IAS), Secretary and Member of the State Executive Committee; Vishal Kumar (IAS), District Magistrate of West Tripura and Chairman of the District Disaster Management Authority; and Agartala Municipal Corporation Mayor Dipak Majumder—are maintaining round-the-clock vigilance in coordination with NDRF, SDRF, and Civil Defence Volunteers. Speaking to the media, DM Vishal Kumar said the administration is far better equipped than in previous years. We’ve expanded our data access through the IMD, introduced SMS alerts, and brought ham radios and satellite links online. The number of Civil Defence volunteers has been doubled from 1,000 to 2,500, and expansion is ongoing. He also underlined the importance of post-disaster preparedness: “We’ve constructed shelter houses in nearly every panchayat with the capacity to house 4–5 lakh people. District Magistrates have been authorized to make emergency procurements, and Rs 14 crore has already been sanctioned for contingency measures.” Tripura's disaster response strategy is notable for its inclusion of civil society. Under Chief Minister Saha’s leadership, NGOs and community clubs have been actively integrated into the disaster response framework, with clear responsibilities and training support.
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