Tripura Public Works Secretary inspects Muhuri River embankment in Belonia, accelerating flood prevention work before monsoon. Government targets timely completion of Rs 100 crore project to safeguard residents, prevent erosion, and strengthen disaster preparedness in vulnerable areas.
Rising concerns over seasonal flooding have prompted urgent administrative action in southern Tripura, where senior officials are stepping up preparedness measures before the onset of heavy rains. A high-level inspection of the Muhuri River embankment was carried out on Tuesday, focusing on flood prevention, infrastructure readiness, and community safety in vulnerable areas.
Tripura’s Public Works Secretary, Kiran Gitte, led the inspection drive in Belonia, accompanied by South Tripura District Magistrate Mohammad Sajjad P (IAS), Belonia Municipal Council Chairperson Nikhil Chandra Ghosh, the Sub-Divisional Magistrate of Belonia, and senior engineers from the Public Works and Water Resources Departments. Municipal representatives and other officials also participated in the extensive field visit.
The inspection covered nearly four kilometers of the Muhuri River embankment, a critical flood defense structure protecting Belonia town and surrounding villages. Officials reviewed the progress of construction work and assessed the readiness of protective measures aimed at preventing erosion and overflow during the monsoon season. Gitte directed engineers and contractors to expedite the work and ensure completion before the arrival of heavy rainfall, emphasizing that delays could expose residents to severe risks.
Particular attention was given to vulnerable stretches along Ishan Chandranagar, Ballamukha, and Talukdar Para. These locations have historically faced erosion and flooding challenges, making them priority zones for reinforcement. During the visit, the Secretary also interacted with Border Security Force (BSF) personnel to address issues related to embankment construction along border-adjacent areas, where coordination is crucial for both security and infrastructure stability.
Officials expressed satisfaction with the ongoing cement concrete (CC) block installation, which is being implemented to strengthen the embankment and prevent riverbank erosion. The large-scale project, valued at approximately Rs 100 crore, is considered a key investment in safeguarding the region’s population and agricultural land from recurring flood damage.
Local residents from SBC Nagar Panchayat and Talukdar Para took the opportunity to submit a proposal for the construction of a sluice gate over a stream that feeds into the Muhuri River. They argued that such a structure would significantly improve water flow regulation and reduce flood risks during peak monsoon periods. Responding to the request, Gitte instructed engineers to conduct a feasibility assessment and assured the community that appropriate measures would be considered based on technical evaluation.
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Following the field inspection, a review meeting was held at the Circuit House in Belonia, where administrative officials and civic leaders discussed broader urban development concerns. Municipal representatives highlighted the need for enhanced infrastructure support, and the Secretary reiterated the government’s commitment to addressing these issues in a timely manner.
Speaking to the media after the visit, Gitte underlined the administration’s priority to complete all embankment works before the monsoon arrives. He stressed that proactive measures are essential to prevent loss of life and property, reaffirming the government’s resolve to protect vulnerable communities in Belonia and nearby regions.
