Thousands take refuge in relief camps following Tripura floods, landslides

Floods in Tripura have been mounting following the heavy rains leading to many villagers seeking shelter at relief camps.

More than 600 families have evacuated villages to set up camps in relief shelters on Sunday after floods affected areas around Agartala. Two villagers also lost their lives and two others were severly injured during landslides. 

"The affected people along the river banks have been shifted to 16 flood relief camps in which 670 families are living. This may increase as rescue operations are underway by National Disaster Relief Force, Tripura State Rifles, and Civil Defense. The administration has arranged for ample food supply and drinking water," he added.

According to reports, more than five thousand people, along with their belongings and domestic animals have taken refuge in temporary camps in various schools and government establishments in and around the capital Agartala.

Tripura Minister Ratan Lal Nath along with the authorities of the administration visited some flood-affected areas to meet the victims. "Due to a sudden downpour in the hilly areas, the Balda Khal, Chandrapur and adjoining areas are flooded as the water level in rivers have increased, due to which, the water is unable to pass to Bangladesh," he said

"In the meantime, several families had to be evacuated and the administration had already reached before I came here. Officials have looked into people's problems and local people have also rendered help. Arrangements for boats have been made though we were not ready for this situation which is a natural hazard and the administration stood by the people," he added.

Heavy downpour was reported in the states hilly areas over the past 24 hours triggering flood in the downstream areas, including the capital town and its adjacent areas.