Tripura CM Stresses AI and Tech in Disaster Management; Announces Doppler Radar Station

Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha has highlighted the critical role of technology and artificial intelligence (AI) in enhancing disaster management capabilities. Speaking at the Secretariat during the launch of various initiatives under the Revenue Department, Dr. Saha emphasized that technological integration can significantly reduce loss of life and property during natural disasters.

As part of the event, the Chief Minister unveiled the State Disaster Management Plan for 2024–25 and launched several important initiatives aimed at strengthening disaster preparedness. These include the Technology Demonstration Unit, Civil Defence Training Scheme, 26 automated weather stations and rain gauges, the Disaster Management Equipment Verification Portal, and the Change of Land Use (Diversion of Land) Portal. The total investment in these projects is ₹50 lakh.

Dr. Saha underscored that the use of AI and real-time technologies is no longer optional but essential in today’s era, especially in the context of increasingly unpredictable and extreme weather events. Citing the devastating impact of Cyclones Sitrang (2022), Mocha (2023), Remal (2024), and floods in 2018 and 2024, he reiterated the importance of advance preparation, early warning systems, and improved emergency response mechanisms.

He also stressed the need to improve relief camp management, including infrastructure and logistics, and urged departments to conduct regular reviews to ensure readiness. A key part of Tripura’s disaster preparedness strategy is human resource development. The Civil Defence Training Scheme aims to train 2,880 volunteers, while many others will receive practical training at the Technology Demonstration Unit in Hapania, Agartala. Dr. Saha called these volunteers the first responders during emergencies and thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah for selecting Tripura as the launch site for this model initiative.

In a significant move toward better forecasting and early warning, 26 automated weather stations and rain gauges have been installed throughout the state. Dr. Saha also announced that a Doppler Weather Radar Station would soon be established in Belonia, enabling more accurate and timely weather predictions crucial for minimizing the impact of natural disasters.

The Equipment Verification Portal, another newly launched digital initiative, will help authorities track the availability and condition of rescue equipment across districts, sub-divisions, and TSR battalions in real-time. This portal is expected to streamline rescue operations by ensuring that all necessary equipment is functional and readily accessible.

Additionally, the Change of Land Use (Diversion of Land) Portal has been introduced to improve transparency and efficiency in land conversion approvals. This move is aimed at fostering a more business-friendly environment in Tripura by reducing bureaucratic delays and making the process more accountable.

In summary, the state government, under the leadership of CM Manik Saha, is taking a multi-dimensional and tech-forward approach to disaster preparedness—combining AI integration, public training, infrastructure upgrades, and digital governance tools to create a more resilient and responsive system for disaster risk reduction in Tripura.