Agartala, 6 Sẹp, 2024: In response to the extensive damage caused by the recent floods, Tripura Chief Minister Prof. (Dr.) Manik Saha has announced a substantial relief and reconstruction package worth ₹564 crore. The announcement was made during the second half of today’s Legislative Assembly session.
The Chief Minister detailed that this package aims to address the immediate relief needs and infrastructure reconstruction across the state. The floods have resulted in significant damage to roads, bridges, power lines, agricultural lands, fisheries, animal husbandry, river embankments, and residential properties, with preliminary damage estimates reaching approximately ₹14,247 crore.
Under this package, various departments will receive allocated funds to manage different aspects of relief and rebuilding efforts. The Food and Consumer Affairs Department is allocated ₹70 crore to provide an additional 10 kg of rice per ration card for the next two months, benefiting around 9.8 lakh ration cardholders. The Agriculture Department will receive ₹15 crore to support seed and fertilizer distribution and other agricultural aid. The Horticulture Department is allocated ₹5 crore for vegetable, flower cultivation, and soil restoration efforts.
The Fisheries Department is granted ₹10 crore for buying fish seeds and providing financial support to fish farms and hatcheries. The Animal Resource Development Department will receive ₹5 crore for immediate support to affected livestock, including water, medicine, and feed. Additionally, the Education Department is allocated ₹12 crore to supply textbooks and repair schools and colleges affected by the floods.
For infrastructure repairs, the Public Works Department (PWD) and the Department of Drinking Water and Sanitation (DDWS) are allocated ₹50 crore and ₹200 crore, respectively. The funds will be used to restore damaged roads, drainage systems, and ensure the supply of drinking water to affected areas. Urban Development will receive ₹12 crore for city road and sewerage repairs, while the Rural Development Department will be allocated ₹40 crore for rural road and office repairs.
The Health Department will receive ₹10 crore for purchasing essential medical supplies, including bleaching powder, ORS packets, and medications for diarrhea and skin diseases. The Water Resources Department is allocated ₹35 crore for river embankment repairs and channel maintenance. The Power Department is given ₹100 crore to expedite the repair of power lines and transformers.
Chief Minister Saha assured that a detailed assessment of the damages by district officials has been conducted. Following this, the state government plans to submit a memorandum to the Union Home Ministry for additional relief and rehabilitation funds.
The Chief Minister expressed hope that this comprehensive package will not only provide immediate relief to the flood-affected people but also support the state’s efforts to rebuild and advance its infrastructure in line with developmental goals.
