Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha embarked on a train journey to Dharmanagar, choosing rail over helicopter travel to underline the progress of the state’s rail connectivity. His decision came ahead of a major developmental push in North Tripura, where he planned to inaugurate 45 infrastructure and public service projects. The chief minister boarded the Kanchanjunga Express and interacted with passengers and railway officials during the journey, drawing attention to the changing face of transport in Tripura.
By choosing to travel by train, CM Saha conveyed a message of accessibility and connection to the people. He said the state’s railway infrastructure had significantly improved under the BJP-led government at the Centre, and Tripura now stands better linked to the rest of the Northeast and mainland India. His presence on the train drew a crowd at every station along the route, with people coming forward to greet him and raise local concerns.
The 45 developmental projects span multiple sectors, including health, education, roadways, and sanitation. CM Saha emphasized that the projects aim to uplift the standard of living in Dharmanagar and its surrounding areas. He noted that these initiatives would not only improve infrastructure but also generate local employment and boost the regional economy. He said the projects mark a step towards balanced development across all districts of the state.
Upon his arrival in Dharmanagar, CM Saha received a warm welcome from party workers, local leaders, and residents. He proceeded to inaugurate a series of completed works and laid the foundation stones for new ones. He reiterated that the government remains committed to inclusive growth and that every citizen should benefit from state development. In his speech, he highlighted the government’s focus on remote and underdeveloped areas.
Local officials and engineers briefed the chief minister about ongoing infrastructure upgrades, including school buildings, public health centers, and road widening projects. He inspected a few sites in person and instructed departments to ensure timely completion of works. He also urged transparency and community participation in monitoring the projects. During his visit, CM Saha stressed that the government will adopt a zero-tolerance approach to corruption.
The chief minister also met with beneficiaries of government schemes and listened to their feedback. He encouraged the public to stay informed about welfare programs and to approach local authorities for grievance redressal. He said the success of the projects will depend on community cooperation and ownership. He asked panchayat leaders and civil society members to play an active role in keeping the development momentum on track.
Political observers said CM Saha’s train ride and focus on grassroots engagement signal a strategic move ahead of the Panchayat elections. They noted that his choice of public transport contrasted with past leaders who relied on helicopters, and that the symbolism would likely resonate with rural voters. They also saw the large number of projects being launched in a single visit as a political statement of intent and efficiency.
Meanwhile, opposition leaders questioned the timing of the announcements and called for an audit of earlier projects to assess their effectiveness. They claimed that some infrastructure works remain incomplete or poorly maintained and urged the government to prioritize quality over quantity. However, the chief minister dismissed the criticism, stating that the government has maintained a steady pace of development since coming to power.
In his closing remarks, CM Saha declared that Tripura’s future lies in decentralized growth and citizen participation. He said his administration will continue to bring services closer to people, especially in districts like North Tripura. He added that infrastructure must connect not only places but also people, bridging gaps in opportunity and equity.
The trip concluded with a cultural event attended by local artists and school children, adding a festive note to the day’s schedule. CM Saha returned to Agartala by train, reaffirming his government’s faith in the state’s growing transport network.
