Despite severe flooding in the northeastern state, Tripura has sufficient food and fuel supplies, according to a minister on Friday.
Since Monday, at least 22 people have lost their lives due to landslides and flood-related incidents, and more than 65,000 individuals have been displaced.
“Apart from the public distribution system (PDS), in the open market, we have stock of rice for 27 days, pulses for 11 days, edible oil for 83 days, potatoes for seven days, onions for five days, wheat for 42 days, sugar for 25 days, and salt for 38 days. Till now, there is no shortage in the open market and rationing system. People should not get anxious,” said Food and Civil Supplies Minister Sushanta Chowdhury during a press conference.
He also noted that rice, pulses, sugar, salt, and edible oil are available in local markets.
Chowdhury mentioned that National Highway 8, a crucial route for Tripura, has been damaged at Atharamura hill due to continuous rain, causing it to be closed to traffic. The National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation, along with the state PWD, are working on repairs, with hopes for completion within the next two days.
The minister added that he had met with senior officials and business representatives to assess the state’s food stock situation.
“We have instructed traders not to create any artificial shortages of food due to the flood. The department will take strict action against anyone involved in hoarding or black-marketing,” he said.
