Statewide power grid devastated by severe storm, massive damage reported across districts 

In the aftermath of a ferocious storm and relentless rainfall spanning just one day, significant devastation has been wrought upon the power infrastructure throughout various districts of the Tripura. Among the hardest-hit regions, including the North, Unakoti, Khowai, Sepahijala, Gomati, South Tripura and Dhalai districts of Tripura, Sepahijala district emerges as the epicentre of the disaster, bearing the brunt of the destruction preliminary assessments reveal staggering figures, indicating the extent of the havoc unleashed by the stormy weather conditions.

Sources in the Tripura State Electricity Corporation Limited (TSECL) said that a comprehensive overview reveals that over 166 km of crucial transmission lines were severed during Thursday's storm, leaving behind a trail of destruction. A staggering tally of 235 poles lay shattered, while 30 transformers suffered irreparable damage. The preliminary financial estimate of the wreckage stands at a staggering Rs 1 crore 42 lakh 18 thousand.

The Tripura State Electricity Corporation, grappling with the enormity of the crisis, has mobilized its workforce, bolstered by additional laborers, in a concerted effort to normalize power services. Engineers and technicians are laboring tirelessly, navigating logistical challenges to expedite restoration efforts. The corporation implores the cooperation of the affected populace in this endeavor.

In a bid to strategize and expedite the recovery process, Power Minister Ratan Lal Nath convened a crucial meeting with the top brass of the TSECL. Emphasizing the urgency of the situation, Minister Nath underscored the imperative of arranging all available resources, including manpower and vehicular assets, to swiftly restore services to affected regions.

While progress has been made in some areas, challenges persist in others, with downed trees and damaged infrastructure impeding restoration efforts. Managing Director of TSECL, Debashis Sarkar acknowledges the complexities involved, citing the time-consuming process of removing fallen trees and repairing damaged power lines. However, he remains optimistic that barring further inclement weather, normalcy will soon be restored. He also said priority has been given to laying power lines for returning emergency services including hospital drinking water sources.

The impact of the storm is palpable across various districts, with Dharmanagar, Panisagar, Kumarghat, Kailashahar, and Teliamura among the worst affected areas of the state. In Sonamura subdivision, the situation is particularly dire, with extensive damage reported in Boxanagar, Paschimpara Gillamura, Tuibandal and other areas.

As restoration efforts intensify, TSECL urges the support and cooperation of the community, underscoring the collective resolve to overcome this adversity. With the deployment of all resources and concerted community efforts, the corporation remains steadfast in its commitment to swiftly restoring power services and alleviating the plight of affected residents.