BY TC News Desk
Agartala, 8th December 2025: A major accident took place this afternoon at the Durgapur ration shop located in Shantinagar market under Durgapur Gram Panchayat, when a large branch from an old, dilapidated banyan tree suddenly broke and crashed onto the shop. Within moments, the structure was left in ruins.
At the time of the incident, ration dealer Umapada Das and several customers were inside the shop. As the branch came down, Das was trapped beneath the debris. Hearing his cries, local residents rushed to the spot and managed to rescue him after much effort. Fortunately, no lives were lost, though panic spread across the area.
Residents allege that the banyan tree had long been in a dangerous condition. Despite repeated written complaints to the Forest Department through the Panchayat, no effective action was taken, they claimed.
Following today’s incident, anger has erupted among locals. They are demanding immediate intervention from the Forest Department to ensure public safety and to inspect other hazardous trees in the vicinity.
According to residents, the accident highlights administrative negligence. “A major tragedy could have occurred today. Luckily, greater damage was avoided,” one villager remarked.
