Agartala | February 26, 2026
With the arrival of the pre-monsoon season, the West Tripura District Administration conducted a high-level review meeting today at the District Magistrate’s Conference Hall to discuss preparedness for natural disasters and the impending ‘Kalbaisakhi’ (Nor’wester) storms. The meeting aimed to streamline coordination between various departments to minimize damage and ensure swift response during emergencies.
Following the meeting, West Tripura District Magistrate Dr. Vishal Kumar addressed the media, providing a detailed roadmap for the district’s disaster management strategy.
Key Decisions and Directives
Dr. Vishal Kumar emphasized that the administration is on high alert, learning from the experiences of previous years’ severe weather events.
- All-Agency Readiness: The DM issued strict instructions to all line departments—including Fire & Emergency Services, PWD, Electricity (TSECL), and Health—to remain in a state of constant readiness.
- Mock Drills: To test field-level coordination, the administration has planned mock drills across multiple strategic locations. These drills will involve the NDRF, SDRF, and civil defense volunteers.
- Equipment Check: Directives were given to ensure that all disaster-relief equipment, such as tree cutters, inflatable boats, and emergency lighting, are functional and strategically stationed.
- Early Warning System: The DM highlighted the importance of disseminating timely weather alerts to the public, particularly in rural and low-lying areas, through various communication channels.
Focus on ‘Kalbaisakhi’ and Infrastructure
Given that Kalbaisakhi storms often lead to uprooted trees and power outages, the Power Department and Forest Department have been asked to identify and prune “danger trees” located near main roads and power lines.
Addressing the press, Dr. Vishal Kumar stated:
”We are taking every possible step to ensure that the district is prepared for any natural calamity. Special attention is being paid to our drainage systems to prevent waterlogging and to our emergency shelter houses. Our quick response teams are ready to be deployed at a moment’s notice.”
Community Cooperation
The District Magistrate also appealed to the citizens to stay cautious during the storm season and to cooperate with the administration during relief operations. Residents were advised to avoid standing under old structures or trees during high-velocity winds.
The meeting concluded with a reaffirmation of the administration’s commitment to “zero casualty” during the upcoming storm season.
Reported by: Tripura24.in Staff Reporter
Location: DM Office Conference Hall, Agartala
