Agartala Mayor Dipak Majumder announced plans to permanently resettle residents from flood-prone areas along the Haora River. With upgraded drainage systems, new water pumps, and better waste management, the city aims to reduce flooding risks and enhance civic infrastructure through public cooperation and sustainable development efforts.
Mayor of Agartala Municipal Corporation, Dipak Majumder, announced that a permanent resettlement plan for residents living in flood-prone areas is currently under consideration. The proposed initiative aims to mitigate the recurring issue of urban flooding, especially along the banks of the Haora River, which flows through the heart of Agartala city.
Over the years, Agartala has been increasingly vulnerable to flash floods caused by intense rainfall, poor drainage infrastructure, and rampant urbanization. Low-lying localities near the Haora River often bear the brunt, with homes inundated, property damaged, and life disrupted. The Mayor acknowledged this pressing concern during a televised interview on Wednesday, emphasizing that sustainable and long-term measures are needed.
“We want a permanent solution to this problem. Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha has also expressed concern over the recurring floods in the city and its outskirts, particularly near the riverbanks. If the people living in flood-prone areas can be resettled through an alternative housing scheme, we shall be able to mitigate the impact of the floods,” Majumder stated.
Mayor Majumder highlighted that the city’s flood management system is being thoroughly revamped. When the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) came to power, Agartala had only 12 pumps to clear water from inundated areas. This number has since been increased to 17. Moreover, three additional vulnerable locations have been identified for further pump installations to combat water stagnation during intense rainfall.
In addition to increasing the number of pumps, the city is working on improving its drainage system. “We are developing cover drains with enhanced water-carrying capacity. These infrastructure upgrades are crucial for minimizing waterlogging,” said the Mayor.
However, Majumder also stressed the importance of public cooperation. He noted that nearly 45 percent of Agartala’s population does not pay municipal taxes on time, nor do they subscribe to the organized garbage collection system. Furthermore, improper disposal of plastic waste into open drains significantly contributes to water congestion during heavy rain.
“It is the collective responsibility of society. Even if only 60 percent of people are paying tax, we can’t deny infrastructure access to anyone. But civic sense must improve. Everyone needs to do their part,” he urged.
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Beyond flood management, the Mayor also addressed the city’s efforts to combat mosquito-borne diseases. The budget for mosquito control has been increased fivefold, and more fogging machines are being procured to ensure broader coverage. Additionally, about 65 water bodies—previously used as dumping grounds—have been cleaned and developed under city development schemes. “These water bodies are now clean and no longer serve as mosquito breeding hubs,” said Majumder.
Majumder also highlighted that progress is already visible. “Even today, if water accumulates in the low-lying areas, it recedes in record time. The difference can be easily felt compared to earlier times,” he added. The Mayor expressed optimism that once the ongoing drainage projects are completed, water-logging will be significantly reduced across the city.
The proposed permanent resettlement plan, if implemented, would mark a major milestone in Agartala’s urban planning and disaster mitigation strategy. It reflects the administration’s commitment to long-term resilience and improved quality of life for its citizens.
