The Agartala–Sabroom National Highway (NH) is once again in the spotlight for all the wrong reasons. Allegations of substandard construction and administrative negligence have resurfaced, with public complaints and RTI revelations pointing to serious flaws in the quality of the roadwork.
The 133 km stretch from Udaipur to Sabroom, sanctioned at a cost of Rs. 497.89 crore by the central government, was built under the supervision of the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL). The highway project, initiated in 2016 and completed under the first BJP-led government in Tripura, was executed by Oriental Structural Engineering Private Limited (OSEPL).
Local sources and activists claim that the construction quality has resulted in rapid deterioration of the highway surface within just three to four years of completion. The road is now marked by potholes, uneven surfaces, and poor driving conditions across multiple sections.
The original project blueprint included essential infrastructure components such as drainage systems, roadside lighting, and traffic signage. However, locals allege that these features were never implemented. Despite receiving full payment, the construction firm reportedly failed to install proper drainage, making the road vulnerable to waterlogging and erosion—particularly during the rainy season.
Public representatives, including an MLA from South Tripura, have voiced concerns and demanded immediate corrective measures. However, authorities including NHIDCL have not initiated any visible follow-up action or repairs.
The current state of the highway has raised serious safety concerns, especially for night-time and long-distance commuters. The absence of adequate lighting and warning signs further contributes to the risk of accidents. Local residents have reported multiple near-misses and collisions in recent months.
Experts warn that unless urgent maintenance and upgrades are carried out, the highway could become completely unusable in the near future. The deteriorating condition is also likely to affect trade and transportation between Agartala and South Tripura, hampering regional development.
Despite repeated public outcry and political pressure, the lack of accountability and transparency in project execution continues to pose a significant challenge. Citizens and stakeholders are now urging both state and central authorities to conduct a fresh audit and take strict action against those responsible for the poor construction standards.
