Tripura’s Lone Community FM Radio Station Faces Major Setback After Storm, Appeals for Urgent Support from Ministry of I&B to Resume Service

By Our Correspondent

Agartala, June 2, 2025

In a major blow to grassroots communication in Tripura, the state’s lone community FM radio station, Friends CR 90.0, located at Ashram Chowmuhani in Agartala, suffered severe damage as a powerful thunderstorm struck the city around midnight on May 29.

The intense storm brought down the radio station’s main transmission studio tower and severely damaged the roof, rendering the station completely non-functional. Broadcasting has come to a total halt — a significant loss, especially during times when community radio serves as a crucial medium for public awareness and emergency updates.

The area was also under a complete blackout for the last 48 hours, but the electricity supply resume today afternoon. Ms. Debanjana Dev Barman, founder of Friends CR 90.0, has reported the damage to the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, seeking immediate assistance to resume broadcasting.

Despite the critical role community radio plays in disaster communication, no response has yet been received from the Central government authorities.

“We are completely disconnected of transmission, and the station is down. We appeal to all concerned to help us rebuild. Community radio is the voice of the people — especially in crises like these,” said Ms. Debanjana.

Local residents and listeners have expressed concern over the disruption and are hopeful that prompt support from authorities and well-wishers will help Friends CR 90.0 return to air soon, stronger and more resilient.

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