By Firstdespatch Desk Sep 23, 2026
Agartala, Sept 23 (FD) Chief Minister Manik Saha hit back at criticism of the state government, saying people were watching and that repeated criticism would only distance the opposition from the public.
Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of the inauguration of the Haora Riverfront and the virtual inauguration of the Airport Road from the Haora Riverfront Parking Area, Saha said, “Let them say whatever they want. After all, they have nothing else to offer; this is all they can say. Let them speak—people are watching. The more they say such things, the more they will alienate themselves from the public.”
Responding to criticism over incidents during medical treatment, Saha said isolated mishaps could occur despite the overall success of treatment.
“Suppose treatment is being provided—sure, an isolated incident or two might occur, but that is hardly something to gloat over or criticise unfairly. You might see a hundred people receiving treatment; if there is one casualty, are you going to make a huge fuss about it? Ninety-nine per cent of people recover successfully,” he said.
The Chief Minister said the government would continue its work with a positive approach despite criticism.
“Mishaps can happen in any single instance; problems inevitably arise when work is being done. But we are working, we maintain a positive mindset, and that is how we intend to proceed,” he said.
On development along the Haora River, Saha said the government was taking steps to strengthen river infrastructure and promote economic activity. He said dredging work was underway at Kata Khal and indicated that the Haora Riverfront could eventually be extended beyond the existing stretch between the Steel Bridge and Dashamighat.
Asked about the prospects of international waterway connectivity through the Gomati River, Saha said progress had been rapid but work had slowed due to the prevailing situation in Bangladesh.
“Let’s see—but I am certain it will happen in the future,” he said.
Saha said the nearly 1,700-metre Haora Riverfront had been developed at a cost of around ₹96 crore. The project includes walking and cycling paths, viewing decks, an elevated walkway, an open gym, a yoga space, a zipline, a children’s playground, a bird aviary, a nature trail, a food plaza and an art and craft village.
He said the riverbank, which had previously been used for dumping waste, had been transformed into a cleaner and more citizen-friendly public space. FD JK