**Agartala, August 23:** Rising waters of the Howrah River crossed the danger level on Sunday, triggering widespread concern among riverbank communities in Tripura as floodwaters inundated several low-lying areas and disrupted normal life.
Residents reported a sharp rise in the river’s water level from around 4 a.m., with parts of Khayerpur constituency, particularly Baldakhal, among the worst affected. Homes, roads and other low-lying areas were submerged, forcing residents to move essential belongings to safer locations.
“The water rose unexpectedly before dawn, leaving us anxious about what comes next,” a local resident said, describing the situation as alarming.
Floodwaters also entered Ranirbazar, Chaturdasha Devata Bari and other low-lying pockets along the river. Waterlogging on several roads affected vehicular movement and added to the difficulties faced by commuters and residents.
Saturday’s heavy rainfall further aggravated the situation, leaving Aralia, Chandrapur and Baldakhal extensively waterlogged. The sudden swelling of rivers and canals led to the inundation of homes, cattle sheds and marketplaces in several areas.
Many families have reportedly moved to temporary relief camps as the administration stepped up rescue and relief operations in the affected zones. Residents have urged authorities to provide timely warnings, safe shelters and adequate relief supplies, particularly for vulnerable families living close to the river.
District administration officials said water levels were being closely monitored and that necessary measures were being taken to deal with the situation. “We are monitoring water levels closely and preparing for relief and evacuation wherever required,” an official statement said.
The situation has raised concerns that further rainfall or continued swelling of the Howrah River could result in additional inundation in downstream and low-lying areas. Authorities remain on alert and are assessing the situation as floodwaters spread across vulnerable pockets.
For residents of Khayerpur and adjoining areas, the flooding has brought renewed concerns over the vulnerability of riverbank communities to sudden rises in water levels following heavy rainfall.
Officials and local teams are continuing to monitor the river and affected areas, while residents remain cautious and prepared to move to safer locations if conditions deteriorate.
The next few hours are expected to be crucial in determining the extent of the flooding and the effectiveness of ongoing rescue and relief measures.
