Agartala, June 4:Agartala Municipal Corporation (AMC) Mayor Dipak Majumder on Wednesday announced that the state government is considering a long-term resettlement plan for people living in flood-prone areas, particularly those residing along the banks of the Haora River, which frequently causes flooding in the city and its outskirts.
“We are looking for a permanent solution to this recurring problem. Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha has also expressed concern. If alternative housing schemes can be implemented to resettle vulnerable families, it will significantly reduce the impact of floods,” Majumder said during an interview with a local cable channel.
Highlighting the overhaul of Agartala’s flood management system, the Mayor noted that the number of water pumps used to drain flooded areas has increased from 12 to 17 since the BJP assumed power. He further mentioned that three new flood-prone zones have been identified, where additional pumps will soon be installed. Alongside this, the city is also constructing covered drains with higher water-carrying capacity to prevent waterlogging.
Majumder also stressed the importance of civic responsibility in maintaining the city’s infrastructure. “About 45% of residents don’t pay taxes on time, and many do not subscribe to garbage collection services. People often dispose of plastic waste into open drains, leading to severe blockages during rains. This has to change,” he asserted.
On mosquito control, he revealed that the AMC has increased its budget fivefold and is procuring more fogging machines. “Around 65 water bodies that once bred mosquitoes have been cleaned and developed under city development schemes,” he added.
The Mayor concluded that once the ongoing covered drain projects are completed, waterlogging issues will be significantly reduced, with water in low-lying areas already receding much faster than before.
