Agartala, Feb 11: Chief Minister Prof. (Dr.) Manik Saha acknowledged the collective efforts of various agencies and citizens in tackling the recent flood crisis in Tripura. Speaking at a relief distribution event organized by Abhoy Mission and the West Tripura district administration at Rabindra Satabarshiki Bhavan, he emphasized the significant role played by the NDRF, SDRF, volunteers, Apda Mitra, government employees, NGOs, students, business communities, clubs, and pensioners in supporting the flood victims. He also noted the generous contributions to the Chief Minister’s Relief Fund, which set an example for community resilience.
Recalling the devastating August 2024 floods, CM Dr. Manik Saha stated that all eight districts of Tripura were affected, with South Tripura, Gomati, and Sepahijala suffering the most damage. Over 1.7 million people were impacted, and nearly 400,000 were evacuated to safe locations and relief camps. A total of 889 relief camps were set up, sheltering around 200,000 people. Tragically, 38 lives were lost, and 58,687 houses were damaged. The estimated financial loss due to the floods is around ₹15,000 crore.
CM Dr. Manik Saha highlighted his discussions with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah regarding the flood crisis. The central government promptly deployed helicopters and NDRF teams for rescue and relief operations, including airlifting and distributing food supplies. An inter-ministerial team from the Centre visited the flood-affected areas twice for assessments. Additionally, apart from the Chief Minister’s Relief Fund, ₹564 crore was allocated from the state budget for flood relief and rehabilitation.
Discussing Tripura’s overall development, CM Dr. Manik Saha said the state has emerged as a top performer in various sectors, including law and order, which has encouraged investors from outside the state. Recently, 87 entrepreneurs signed MoUs with the state government, expressing investment interests worth approximately ₹3,700 crore. He also mentioned the government’s swift action in safely bringing back Tripura’s students from Manipur amid the crisis there.
During the event, CM Dr. Manik Saha praised Abhoy Mission and Americares India Foundation for their relief efforts. West Tripura District Magistrate Dr. Vishal Kumar delivered a vote of thanks, while Sadar Sub-Divisional Magistrate Manik Lal Das, Abhoy Mission President Nirmal Deb, and Secretary Sushmita Dey were also present. The Chief Minister and other dignitaries symbolically handed over relief materials to 10 flood-affected individuals.
