The Tripura government has intensified flood control measures along the India-Bangladesh border, following concerns over an embankment being constructed by Bangladesh near the Muhuri River. Officials fear the structure could increase flood risks for residents in South Tripura, particularly in Belonia town and nearby villages.
Government’s Response
A high-level delegation, led by Tripura Public Works Department Secretary Kiran Gitte, visited the affected areas on April 20, 2025, conducting an on-the-spot study and meeting with local villagers and elected representatives. Gitte assured residents that flood protection measures were being expedited, with five additional engineers deployed to strengthen embankments on the Indian side.
The Tripura government has identified 43 flood-prone locations across the state, where repair work has begun or will start soon. Officials confirmed that all flood-related infrastructure repairs would be completed by June 2025, ensuring protection before the monsoon season.
Concerns Over Bangladesh’s Embankment
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.
