A high-level delegation from the Tripura government visited Belonia town and adjoining border villages on April 20, 2025, to assess the impact of an embankment being constructed by Bangladesh along the Muhuri River, which divides the two nations. The visit comes amid growing concerns that the embankment could increase flood risks for South Tripura residents during the monsoon season.
Government’s Response and Flood Protection Measures
Led by Tripura Public Works Department Secretary Kiran Gitte, the delegation conducted an on-the-spot study and met with local villagers and elected representatives, including the Chairman of the Belonia Municipal Council. Gitte assured residents that embankments and other flood protection measures were being intensified to safeguard Belonia town and nearby villages.
The Tripura government has identified 43 flood-prone locations across the state, including South Tripura, where repair work has begun or will start soon. Gitte confirmed that all flood-related infrastructure repairs would be completed by June 2025, with five additional engineers deployed to expedite the work.
Concerns Over Bangladesh’s Embankment Construction
Residents of Belonia, Ballamukh, Ishan Chandranagar, and other border villages have expressed serious concerns over the embankment, fearing it could redirect floodwaters into Indian territory. Local CPI-M MLA Dipankar Sen has urged the South Tripura District Magistrate and Border Security Force (BSF) officials to escalate the matter to the Central government, requesting diplomatic intervention with Bangladesh.
Similar concerns have been raised in Unakoti district, where another embankment constructed by Bangladesh near Kailashahar has sparked fears of monsoon flooding. The Congress party has organized protests, demanding government action to prevent potential disasters.
Next Steps and Diplomatic Intervention
Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha has already apprised Union Home Minister Amit Shah of the situation, urging the Central government to take up the issue with Dhaka. The BSF’s Tripura Frontier Inspector General Ashwani Kumar Sharma accompanied the delegation during the visit, reinforcing the urgency of the matter.
With monsoon season approaching, authorities are racing against time to strengthen embankments on the Indian side and engage in diplomatic discussions to mitigate flood risks.
