The northeastern Indian state of Tripura has been devastated by severe floods, with the death toll reaching 31 as of August 28th[8]. The floods have affected millions, with over 34,100 people seeking shelter in relief camps. Among those affected are also Christians who have endured heavy losses from both floods and landslides.
In response to the crisis, various church groups have stepped in to provide aid and support to the flood victims and are working closely with the civil administration to rescue civilians stranded due to the floods. The Baptist Church Fellowship has called an emergency meeting to coordinate disaster relief efforts. The Believers Eastern Church has also launched a relief operation, with 51 out of 68 affected churches providing assistance.
Chief Minister Manik Saha has announced an additional ₹10 crore for flood-affected people and has sought deployment of additional National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) personnel. The Chief Minister's Relief Fund has been receiving contributions from various organizations and non-profits.
The floods have caused an estimated ₹15,000 crore worth of damages, with most of the prominent rivers in Tripura flowing above critical or danger levels. The state's main river, Gomati, has crossed the 'extreme danger level' in many places of Gomati and Sepahijala districts.
The government ordered the closure of schools for a few days due to the heavy rain and floods. The Northeast Frontier Railways (NFR) had to cancelled 10 local trains in Tripura, and railway tracks have reportedly been damaged in Gomati district.
In response to the state's request, the Government of India has sent a central team to assess the situation. The team will evaluate the damages caused by the floods and provide necessary assistance. The administration is continuing to provide relief, including food, drinking water, and medical help, in relief camps.
Students in Tripura have also stepped up to collect books, clothes, and other essential items for the flood victims. The Tripura Students' Union (TSU) has launched a drive to collect relief materials from the public, which will be distributed to the affected families. The TSU has set up collection centres across the state to facilitate the donation process.
However, there are concerns that most flood victims are being sent home without any preliminary compensation. Farmers in particular have been hit hard by the floods, with many losing their crops and livestock. Some farmers have even resorted to suicide due to the financial stress caused by the disaster.
The government has announced compensation packages for those affected by the floods, but there are concerns about the distribution process. Many victims have reported delays in receiving aid, and there are allegations of corruption and favouritism in the distribution of relief materials.
