The state of Tripura is currently facing allegations of massive corruption and substandard construction in multiple national highway projects. Reports have revealed that more than eight National Highway (NH) projects have been sanctioned in the state, with concerns emerging about the quality of work and the allocation of funds.
Among the most troubling cases are the Khowai-Kamalpur and Khowai-Agartala national highways. Despite receiving over Rs. 620 crore for development, these roads remain incomplete and are of poor quality, posing serious risks to travelers. The Khowai-Kamalpur stretch, which is 25 kilometers long, and the Khowai-Agartala stretch, which is 38 kilometers long, have been sanctioned at a cost exceeding Rs. 12 crore per kilometer. However, both roads are riddled with potholes and lack essential infrastructure such as signage, drainage, and lighting systems.
Similar issues have been reported in the Khowai-Ambassa stretch, which was sanctioned at around Rs. 208 crore. The construction process in these projects has been plagued by irregularities, including improper groundwork, unscientific road layering, and a lack of proper water drainage systems. These faults not only endanger daily commuters but also demonstrate a blatant disregard for national highway construction standards.
Completed projects like the Agartala-Sabroom stretch and the Kanchanpur to Jampui Hill road also exhibit similar deficiencies, despite being labeled as “complete.” Residents and travelers have expressed concerns about the high number of accidents and vehicle damage caused by these poorly constructed roads.
Experts are calling for a central investigation or audit to examine the allocation, subletting, and utilization of funds in these highway projects. Without urgent intervention and accountability from both state and central authorities, Tripura’s infrastructure development plans may result in a waste of public funds and put countless lives at risk.
