Sabroom, May 05, 2024, TRIPURATIMES Desk

Sabroom May 05: In the wake of a severe hailstorm that hit various parts of the state, janajati families have been compelled to find refuge under the tree canopies for over a month.

Although their makeshift shelter provides cover during the day, as soon as the rain begins, they are forced to seek shelter in a neighbour’s porch.

According to reports from local sources, several houses belonging to poor tribal families were damaged following a hailstorm one and a half month ago in Ward No. 2 under Charilam block. As the affected families are facing the brunt of this natural calamity, the state government and the concerned department assured them adequate compensation. But a number of villagers alleged that they have not received any compensation yet, following which they are spending days in extreme distress.

Bijoy Debbarma, a resident of Ward No. 2, Sarat Choudhury Para of Rangamala Village under Charilam Block has voiced concerns over the delay in government compensation, stating that despite repeated visits and assessments by department officials, the promised aid has yet to materialize.

“Even after one and a half months since the house has been damaged because of the hailstorm, officials come and go, they click pictures, assure of providing compensation to rebuild the house but nothing has been done so far according to the promise”, said Bijoy Debbarma.

This has left the affected families in a precarious situation, struggling to cope with the hardships imposed by the elements.

Meanwhile, the Sabroom subdivision has once again suffered excessive damage because of the late night storm on Saturday, with the total losses yet to be estimated.

The disruption of power services has added to the woes of the residents, with no clear timeline for restoration.

Authorities from the electricity department and Nagar Panchayat are reportedly working tirelessly to normalize the situation.

The community awaits a swift response and support from the government to alleviate their suffering and restore normalcy in the aftermath of these devastating events.