A sudden burst of torrential rain left more than 250 families homeless in South Tripura on Wednesday, as the swelling Muhuri River surged past its danger limit at 15.70 metres. At its 7 pm reading, the river’s level not only exceeded the official danger mark but also edged near the extreme danger threshold, putting communities in Belonia and Santirbazar subdivisions on high alert.

The floodwaters, surging from constant overnight rains, seeped across embankments and submerged sensitive low-lying zones, impacting nearly 840 individuals across 250 households. The district administration swiftly moved into action, establishing at least 16 relief camps within South Tripura; an additional ten camps provided hats to 118 families, totaling around 289 people.

As a precaution, all schools and anganwadi centres stay shut, while the District Magistrate, Md Sajad P, advised residents in flood takes areas to stay vigilant and seek safe evacuation if needed. The NDRF and the 9th Battalion Tripura State Rifles have been deployed to assist with rescue and relief efforts. Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha is looking after the situation closely, ensuring that help reaches those affected.

The India Meteorological Department has issued a ‘yellow’ to ‘orange’ alert for the region, forecasting continued heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, and lightning into Thursday. Although water levels have started to slowly recede, officials caution that the risk remains high due to the river’s history of wild flash floods and course changes.

For the over 250 families now uprooted, the coming days will be about rebuilding and recovery. Authorities are working round the clock to distribute relief, provide temporary shelter, and reinforce embankments as they brace for potential further rainfall and rising water levels.