By TC News Desk
Agartala, 1st April 2024: Tripura grapples with the aftermath of a destructive Nor’wester, with 800 homes damaged and 23 individuals seeking refuge in relief camps. A State Disaster Relief Fund (SDRF) totaling Rs 55.38 crores has been swiftly allocated to all District Authorities to facilitate urgent relief and rehabilitation efforts following the cyclonic storm that ravaged the state on March 30th and 31st.
Brijesh Pandey, Secretary of Revenue (Relief, Rehabilitation, and Disaster Management) Department, addressed the press, outlining the extensive impact of the Nor’wester across 7 districts and 17 sub-divisions, excluding North Tripura District.
Pandey revealed the extent of the devastation, citing 62 homes fully destroyed, 161 severely damaged, and 577 partially affected. Additionally, 42 locations suffered blockades due to fallen trees, electric poles, and wires. Tragically, one fatality was reported in Udaipur Sub-Division under Gomati District due to lightning strike, while power supply was disrupted in 205 areas.
Efforts to mitigate the crisis were promptly initiated by District Disaster Management Authorities, adhering to the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) Guidelines of the Election Commission of India. Quick response teams mobilized to clear debris and restore power lines, with damage assessment teams deployed to evaluate the situation. Initial relief assistance, amounting to Rs 4-5 thousand per family, has been provided to over 50 affected families, with ongoing efforts to assist remaining affected households.
A relief camp has been established at Teliamura RD Block in Khowai District, accommodating 7 families comprising 23 individuals. Adequate funding from the SDRF, totaling Rs 55.38 crores, has been disbursed to all District Authorities for immediate relief and rehabilitation measures. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) continues to provide weather forecasts and nowcasts, disseminated to the public through the Common Alerting Protocol (CAP). State and District Emergency Operation Centres remain operational around the clock.
Preparedness measures were implemented well in advance, with a state-level preparatory meeting held on March 2nd, involving all District Authorities and Line Departments. Subsequent reviews and preparations at the district level ensured readiness to tackle the situation effectively. Authorities reassure the public of their full readiness to handle the challenges posed by the Nor’wester and upcoming Southwest Monsoon, with proactive measures in place.
