Agartala: The government of Tripura has ordered the closure of schools and colleges in view of the extreme flood situation in different parts of the state.
Upon returning from New Delhi on Tuesday, Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha immediately chaired a review meeting with all senior officials from major departments, including Chief Secretary JK Sinha. The meeting was convened to assess the ongoing situation. On Wednesday, Dr. Saha announced that schools and colleges would remain closed due to the current circumstances.
“Due to the current situation and heavy rainfall, the government has declared a two-day closure for all schools on August 21 and 22. Additionally, all colleges will remain closed on August 21. All students, teachers, and staff are requested to stay safe and follow the instructions,” Dr. Saha posted on his official social media account.
A detailed order undersigned by Additional Secretary of the Education Department, NC Sharma, added: “Due to the present weather conditions, including heavy rainfall, floods, and landslides, it has been decided that all schools—government, government-aided, privately managed, schools under TTAADC, Madrasas, etc.—across the state shall remain closed on August 21 and 22, 2024. This decision has been taken to ensure the safety of students under the prevailing weather conditions.”
Meanwhile, Tripura University has also cancelled its final exams for second and fourth-semester students, postponing them until further notice.
Additionally, Anganwadi Centers under the Social Welfare and Social Education Department were also closed.
In the worst-affected districts, state government employees have been instructed not to leave their stations as their services may be required in emergencies.
“Considering the heavy and incessant rain across the district, the critical flood situation, landslides, road damage, and ongoing evacuations, all line departments and stakeholders are advised to remain on standby or on-call to respond promptly as needed. Moreover, the water level of the Gomati River has already breached the danger level, and reports suggest it may rise above the critical level tonight. In light of this, no officer shall leave the station without prior permission from the competent authority. Additionally, in the event of a network failure during an emergency, all are requested to report to the DEOC, Disaster Management Section of this office, on their own,” an order issued by the District Magistrate of Gomati stated.
The District Magistrate also warned of action under the Disaster Management Act in case of non-compliance.
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