The Tripura government has called for an emergency high-level meeting to review the availability of fuel and essential commodities. This comes in the wake of a major landslide in Assam that disrupted train services to the state.
The damaged railway track in the hilly Dima Hasao district of Assam has cut off vital rail connectivity. This route is Tripura’s primary lifeline for fuel, food supplies, and other essential goods.
Train Disruption Sparks Supply Concerns
The landslide occurred on Monday near the Lumding–Badarpur section, affecting the route used by the Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR). The disruption has brought both passenger and freight services to a halt.
Tripura Chief Secretary J.K. Sinha confirmed that a meeting of top officials from the Food, Civil Supplies, Transport, and Disaster Management departments will be held on Tuesday. The aim is to assess current stock levels and implement contingency plans.
Fuel, LPG and Food Supplies Being Monitored
Officials said that the state has enough fuel reserves to last a few more days. However, proactive steps are being taken to avoid panic buying or hoarding. Stocks of LPG, rice, pulses, sugar, and medicines are also under review.
Transport Commissioner S. Debbarma said, “We are in constant touch with Indian Oil and Food Corporation officials. The buffer stock is being evaluated. Further, emergency supply via road from Guwahati is being considered.”
Public Urged to Avoid Panic
The Tripura government has appealed to the public to remain calm and avoid unnecessary stockpiling. “We are monitoring the situation hourly. Supplies will be restored. There is no need to panic,” said Food and Civil Supplies Minister Sushanta Chowdhury.
Indian Railways Working on Restoration
The Northeast Frontier Railway has deployed multiple teams to assess and repair the damaged railway track. Landslides in the hilly terrain during monsoon are not uncommon, but this incident has had a wider impact due to its location on a key supply route.
According to railway sources, over 10 goods trains carrying petroleum, food grains, and construction materials are currently stranded.
Emergency Route Plans Discussed
The state is also exploring alternate routes via Mizoram and Meghalaya to ensure uninterrupted supply. The Transport Department has instructed private carriers to be ready for emergency trips.
Tripura shares its road network with parts of Assam, Mizoram, and Bangladesh. Also, officials are in talks with neighbouring states to facilitate faster movement of trucks carrying essentials.
Relief and Logistics Teams on Standby
The Disaster Management Department has placed relief teams and volunteers on alert in case the disruption affects remote hill districts. Special focus is being given to North Tripura and Dhalai, where stock replenishment takes longer.
Deputy Commissioners across all districts have been instructed to send daily updates on inventory and transportation.
CM Likely to Take Up Matter with Centre
Sources close to Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha said he is likely to speak with Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw to ensure speedy repair of the damaged rail stretch.
The state may also request central assistance for alternative logistics and freight clearance.
The train disruption due to the Assam landslide has triggered a quick administrative response in Tripura. While fuel and food stock levels remain stable for now, government departments are moving swiftly to prepare for any prolonged crisis. Public cooperation and inter-agency coordination will be key to maintaining supply chain stability in the days ahead.
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