A high-level team led by District Magistrate (DM) D.K. Chakma visited the Indo-Bangladesh border near Kailashahar sub-division in Tripura's Unakoti district on Friday to inspect an embankment being constructed by Bangladesh. The visit came 48 hours after Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha assured the state Assembly of addressing the issue with the central government. 

The inspection followed concerns raised by Congress MLA Birajit Sinha, who highlighted the construction of a massive embankment by Bangladesh, some of which reportedly falls on the 'zero line'—the no-construction zone within 150 yards of the international border. 

DM Chakma stated, "Bangladesh is constructing a large embankment, significantly raising its height to control floodwaters. However, this could obstruct the natural flow of water downstream. Portions of the structure appear to have been built on the zero line." Photographic evidence of the construction site has been collected, and the matter will be escalated to the appropriate authorities. 

The DM also emphasised the need to strengthen the existing embankment at Rangauti on the Indian side to mitigate potential flood risks. 

Earlier, CM Saha assured the Assembly that he would take up the matter with the central government, echoing Sinha's warning that an unfortified embankment could leave residents vulnerable to floods. The issue underscores the need for mutual agreements between India and Bangladesh on border infrastructure to avoid future disputes and ensure regional flood management. 

(Deccan Herald)