The State Health Secretary of Tripura Kiran Gitte won first prize for a case study on waterlogging and flood control in Agartala at a prestigious training camp. The event organized by the Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration (LBSNAA) took place in Mussoorie from June 18 to July 13. It featured participation from 83 IAS officers representing 23 cadre states.
Gitte’s winning case study focused on the Agartala Flood Mitigation Project drawing from his extensive experience as Secretary of the Urban Development Department and Chairman of the Agartala Smart City Project during 2019-20. The study showcased innovative strategies implemented to address the city’s persistent flooding issues.
Reflecting on the project’s impact Gitte stated “Our initiatives including the installation of sewage pumps diesel-powered pumps and underground pipelines along with mechanical drain cleaning and construction of new drains have been crucial in mitigating flood risks.”
The Agartala Flood Mitigation Project implemented a series of measures over three years to tackle waterlogging. These include installing sewage and diesel-powered pumps underground pipelines mechanical drain cleaning and constructing new drains and Swiss gates. A round-the-clock integrated command system monitors the flood situation enabling swift response.
“As a result of these efforts the duration of water accumulation during heavy rainfall has been reduced from 2-3 days to less than an hour” Gitte explained highlighting the project’s significant impact on the city’s flood resilience.
Sriram Tarunikanti Director of LBSNAA presented the award commending the innovative and effective strategies employed in Agartala’s flood management. “This case study serves as a benchmark for urban flood control and highlights the importance of proactive measures in disaster management” Tarunikanti stated.
The recognition underscores the significance of Agartala’s approach to urban flood management and sets a standard for other cities facing similar challenges. This achievement not only honors Gitte’s work but also brings attention to the importance of proactive measures in disaster management and urban development.
The Acting Director of the Health Department announced the news in a press release expressing pride in Gitte’s accomplishment. They emphasized the importance of such recognition in inspiring further advancements in urban development and flood control strategies across the country.