Agartala, March 14, 2026: The Tripura government has initiated a major flood-prevention project in the capital city, combining canal cleaning with embankment construction to safeguard against seasonal inundation.

Work has begun on clearing the Katakhal Canal, while a 650-meter embankment is being built along the Howrah River. Senior officials, including Urban Development Secretary Kiran Gitte, Agartala Municipal Corporation Commissioner, West Tripura District Magistrate Dr. Vishal Kumar, Saju Wahid, and Dr. Gugulavath Sharath Nayak, CEO of Agartala Smart City Ltd, inspected the sites on Thursday.

Speaking after the review, Secretary Gitte underscored the city’s reliance on two key outlets—the Howrah River and Katakhal Canal—for floodwater discharge. “Cleaning operations are underway to remove blockages, with coordinated efforts by the Municipal Corporation, Smart City Limited, and the Water Resources Department. Simultaneously, construction of the embankment has started, backed by state-sanctioned funds and land acquisition,” he said.

Gitte recalled that Chief Minister Manik Saha had pledged the embankment project in the Assembly last year, a commitment now being fulfilled. He assured residents that with all pumps fully functional, Agartala would be able to drain excess water within an hour during heavy rainfall.

The initiative, officials said, reflects the government’s focus on flood mitigation and urban resilience, aiming to keep Agartala secure during the monsoon season.