By TC News Desk
Agartala, 17th June 2024: Torrential rains that began on Monday morning have left the city of Dharmanagar submerged causing widespread flooding and disruption. The heavy downpour started early in the morning inundated most areas of the city leading to severe waterlogging and paralyzing daily life.
Key areas affected by the deluge include Jail Road, Nayapara Road, Babur Bazar, Rajbari and the areas bordering India and Bangladesh. Water has entered homes, exacerbating the plight of residents who have been battling with the city’s inadequate drainage system. The flooding has been particularly severe due to the outdated and insufficient drainage infrastructure, which failed to cope with the volume of rainwater.
The situation has been further compounded by recent urban developments. Previously vacant areas, now densely populated with new housing have disrupted the natural water drainage patterns resulting in stagnant water accumulating in various parts of the city. This urban sprawl has significantly damaged the drainage system leaving it unable to efficiently channel away the rainwater.
The Nowagang market, a crucial hub for local business has been hit hard with businesses failing to operate due to the flooding. The market area is waterlogged and shopkeepers have been failed to open their establishments. The heavy rains and resultant flooding have brought public life to a standstill. Various business establishments, including shops, remained closed throughout the day. The closure of government offices due to the Eid holiday has added to the paralysis, leaving the city’s administration’s response capacity limited.
Many residents in the suburbs have been preoccupied with managing the water that has entered their homes, preventing them from leaving to conduct their daily activities. Despite some administrative efforts to address the flooding, the scale of the problem has left many feeling helpless.
Curious onlookers ventured out to witness the rain-flooded streets of Dharmanagar, but their curiosity soon turned to dismay as they navigated the rising waters. Although the intensity of the rain decreased by the afternoon water levels in several areas remained stubbornly high. Locals expressed frustration, noting that the water is not receding as quickly as expected.
The populous city of Dharmanagar has been severely impacted by the flooding, posing a significant threat to daily life and safety. Residents continue to grapple with the aftermath of the heavy rains, highlighting the urgent need for improved urban planning and drainage infrastructure to prevent such disasters in the future.
