Following persistent complaints from Tripura residents and a direct appeal by Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha, the Centre has finally stepped in to address the deteriorating Tripura NH condition. The National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) has confirmed that its Managing Director, Chanchal Kumar, will visit the state on August 10 to assess the situation.
The visit follows CM Saha’s repeated concerns over the poor condition of key National Highway stretches, especially those connecting Agartala with Assam and other northeastern states.
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CM Saha’s Push Forces Centre to Respond
Over the past several weeks, Chief Minister Saha has flagged the worsening road condition on several important national highways in Tripura. The issue has caused frequent traffic disruptions, accidents, and immense hardship for commuters, especially during monsoon.
He raised the matter directly with Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari and urged immediate intervention. Saha’s appeal highlighted the urgent need for road repairs and better coordination between NHIDCL and state agencies.
The Centre has responded swiftly by scheduling a high-level review visit. NHIDCL Managing Director Chanchal Kumar is expected to inspect key routes personally and discuss solutions with state officials during his visit.
Key Stretches in Focus
Among the worst-affected stretches of highway are:
- NH-08 (Agartala to Churaibari section)
- NH-208A (Udaipur to Sabroom section)
- NH-44A (Khowai to Teliamura)
These roads are lifelines for the state’s transport, trade, and emergency services. In recent weeks, potholes, landslides, and damaged culverts have caused long traffic jams and vehicle breakdowns.
Several videos and images showing trucks stuck in muddy patches and ambulances stranded due to blocked roads have gone viral on social media, amplifying public anger.
NHIDCL Visit Set for August 10
The NHIDCL Managing Director’s visit on August 10 is seen as a major step toward resolving the crisis. Officials from Tripura’s Public Works Department (PWD), Border Roads Organisation (BRO), and local administration will accompany the MD on this inspection.
The agenda includes:
- Physical inspection of damaged stretches
- Review of pending repair works
- Interaction with contractors and project managers
- Coordination meetings with state authorities
Officials believe the visit will speed up stalled roadworks and ensure better accountability from construction agencies.
CM Saha’s Commitment to Infrastructure
Dr. Manik Saha has consistently stressed the importance of robust road infrastructure for Tripura’s development. He has called road connectivity the backbone of economic growth, especially in a landlocked state like Tripura.
During his recent review meeting, CM Saha remarked, “Tripura cannot afford such poor highway conditions. We are working with the Centre to find long-term and sustainable solutions. The upcoming visit by NHIDCL MD reflects that seriousness.”
He also directed state departments to provide full support during the NHIDCL team’s visit and ensure transparent reporting of on-ground realities.
Public Frustration Peaks
The deteriorating Tripura NH condition has become a daily struggle for people in districts like Dhalai, Gomati, and North Tripura. Frequent rain, delayed construction, and poor maintenance have turned national highways into dangerous routes.
Transport operators have complained of high vehicle maintenance costs. Ambulance drivers have reported delays in reaching hospitals. Local traders are witnessing delivery slowdowns, especially in perishable goods like fish, vegetables, and dairy.
Residents have expressed hope that the NHIDCL MD’s visit will finally lead to concrete action rather than promises.
What to Expect After the Visit
Officials say the August 10 visit could trigger several outcomes:
- Rescheduling of key project deadlines
- Reallocation of contractors for poor performance
- Increased Centre-state coordination
- Release of additional funds for emergency repairs
There is also speculation that the Centre may introduce stricter monitoring through a project dashboard or third-party audit to ensure time-bound completion of work.
NHIDCL is already responsible for developing and maintaining highways across Northeast India. However, challenges such as tough terrain, monsoon damage, and contractor inefficiencies have delayed several projects in Tripura.
A Crucial Test for Centre-State Coordination
The condition of national highways is now a political and administrative concern. CM Saha has made it clear that regular oversight and transparent execution are key to fixing the problem.
The visit by NHIDCL’s top official will serve as a test of Centre-state cooperation. Both governments must work in sync to restore public confidence and ensure smoother travel.
The Centre’s response to the worsening Tripura NH condition, following CM Manik Saha’s strong appeal, marks an important shift toward active intervention. The visit by NHIDCL MD Chanchal Kumar on August 10 offers hope for faster repairs, better accountability, and long-term planning.
For the people of Tripura, this is not just about roads—it’s about daily life, safety, and economic opportunity. Whether this visit turns into a turning point remains to be seen, but expectations are high and the stakes even higher.
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