By TC News Desk
Agartala, 3rd September 2024: The residents of Durgapur Ward No. 4 in the Sonamura sub-division are grappling with severe river erosion, which poses an imminent threat to their homes and livelihoods. The situation has become dire with 35 families at risk of being submerged by the Gomti River at any moment.
Local residents have voiced urgent demands for immediate intervention. “We need boulders placed in the river right away to prevent further erosion,” said one resident, reflecting the community’s desperation. The recent floods have exacerbated the situation, with the Gomti River swelling to dangerous levels and submerging hundreds of houses on both sides.
During the floods, most homes in Durgapur Ward No. 4 were inundated, forcing residents to seek refuge in temporary camps. As the water levels receded, people returned to their homes, only to face a new threat. The receding waters have triggered severe erosion along the riverbanks, causing one house to already collapse into the river. “We live in constant fear,” shared another resident. “Our homes could be next.”
The local Member of Legislative Assembly (MLA) visited the area during the floods and assured residents that boulders would be installed to reinforce the riverbanks. “We need to act swiftly to prevent further collapse,” the MLA stated. However, the process is fraught with bureaucratic delays. The Detailed Project Report (DPR) has been prepared but requires approval from the concerned department. Only after securing the necessary funds can the work commence.
The community is now anxiously waiting to see what actions will be taken to safeguard their homes. “It’s a race against time,” said a local leader. “We need immediate action to protect our families and our future.”
The situation in Durgapur Ward No. 4 highlights the urgent need for effective flood management and erosion control measures in vulnerable areas. The residents’ plight serves as a stark reminder of the devastating impact of natural disasters and the critical importance of timely intervention.
