Tripura Officials Raise Alarm Over Bangladesh Embankment Along Muhuri River
Guwahati, April 13, 2025 – A high-level delegation from Tripura on Sunday visited the border town of Belonia to inspect the ongoing construction of an embankment by the Bangladesh government along the Muhuri River, which serves as a natural boundary between the two nations.
The delegation, led by Tripura Public Works Department Secretary Kiran Gitte, carried out an on-site evaluation to assess potential risks posed to Indian territory, especially in the South Tripura district. They also engaged in discussions with local villagers and held meetings with elected representatives, including the Belonia Municipal Council chairman.
Mr. Gitte noted that in response to the situation, the Indian government has initiated protective embankment construction and infrastructure repairs to safeguard Belonia town and nearby villages. “We are accelerating the work and expect full completion by June this year. Given the scale of the task, five additional engineers will be deployed in the South Tripura district,” he said.
The region witnessed extensive damage during the August 2024 floods and landslides, with 43 critical locations identified across various districts. These include river embankments and infrastructure along the India-Bangladesh border, many of which are now undergoing urgent restoration.
Concerns have grown among residents of Ballamukh, Ishan Chandranagar, and nearby areas over the large-scale embankment being constructed by Bangladesh. Locals fear the structure may divert floodwaters toward Indian villages during the monsoon, increasing the risk of severe waterlogging and displacement.
Senior officers of the Border Security Force (BSF) also participated in the visit, highlighting the strategic and humanitarian implications of cross-border river management.
Previously, Bangladesh had built similar embankments near Unakoti district in northern Tripura, raising fears of flood threats to Kailashahar town and adjacent border communities.
Authorities assured residents that all necessary precautions are being taken, and that India remains vigilant about any developments that may pose environmental or territorial risks in the sensitive border areas.