By Firstdespatch Desk Jun 22, 2026
Agartala, June 22 (FD) The opposition CPI (M) in Tripura on Monday urged the government to take immediate measures to address a series of public concerns linked to the on-going development works along the Assam–Agartala National Highway.
A five member delegation of the CPI (M) led by former Transport Minister Manik Dey met Tripura Chief Secretary J.K. Sinha at the State Secretariat and submitted a memorandum highlighting several issues affecting residents, traders and commuters in areas adjoining the highway expansion project.
One of the key concerns raised was the construction of an over bridge at Champaknagar Bazaar under Jirania subdivision of West Tripura district. The CPI (M) leaders argued that the existing design of the project could effectively split the traditional marketplace into two sections, adversely impacting business activities and causing inconvenience to the local population.
According to the delegation, the present alignment may lead to significant economic losses for traders and disrupt the daily movement of people in the area. They urged the government to review the project design and explore alternative solutions, including a bypass route or a pillar-supported flyover structure that would help preserve the continuity of the market while ensuring smooth traffic flow.
The leaders also recalled that local traders and residents had earlier staged protests, including road blockades and market shutdowns, demanding modifications to the project plan.
Another major issue brought to the Chief Secretary’s attention was the inadequate drainage infrastructure along the 3.5-kilometre stretch between Sadhupara and Champaknagar West Market. The delegation pointed out that the absence of proper drainage channels on both sides of the highway has resulted in persistent waterlogging, causing damage to residential properties, agricultural land, vegetable farms and commercial establishments.
The delegation noted that drainage work had been initiated at several locations along the highway corridor but alleged that progress had stalled. They called for the immediate completion of pending drainage projects and demanded the construction of covered drains on both sides of the road to ensure effective water management and prevent flooding during the monsoon season.
Highlighting growing traffic congestion along the highway, Manik Dey also proposed the construction of a flyover between Khowai CNG Point and Atharabhola West. He said a similar proposal had been submitted to the Central Government during the previous Left Front regime but remains unimplemented. FD JK