Agartala | February 27, 2026
Despite strict state government regulations, the illegal filling of water bodies to make way for multi-story buildings continues unabated in the heart of Agartala. The growing trend of converting ponds into concrete jungles has raised serious environmental concerns, with local residents accusing the administration of turning a blind eye to these violations.
The issue took center stage today at a press conference held by the Blue Lotus Club and local residents of the Dhaleswar area. They highlighted a massive construction project currently underway near the club premises, allegedly built on a filled-up water body.
The Case of the 8-Ganda Pond
The club authorities and locals identified a resident, Sujit Nandi, who is reportedly constructing a large apartment complex (flat house) by filling a pond measuring approximately 8 Gandas.
Key concerns raised during the press meet:
- Regulatory Violation: The State Government has established a high-level committee to examine applications for pond filling. Under current rules, permission is generally not granted for filling water bodies exceeding 2 Gandas.
- Questionable Approvals: The locals questioned how a pond as large as 8 Gandas could be filled and cleared for a residential project.
- Administrative Silence: Residents alleged that the lack of proactive monitoring by the municipal and district administration has emboldened developers to bypass environmental laws.
Demands for a High-Level Inquiry
Speaking on behalf of the community, the Blue Lotus Club representatives demanded an immediate intervention by the Agartala Municipal Corporation (AMC) and the West Tripura District Administration.
”We want to know how such a massive pond was allowed to be filled. Even if there is a permit, on what grounds was it issued for an 8-ganda water body? This is a blatant violation of environmental norms. We demand a thorough investigation into the legality of this construction,” said a member of the Blue Lotus Club.
Environmental Impact
Residents expressed fear that the rapid disappearance of ponds in Agartala’s “lanes and alleys” is leading to:
- Severe Waterlogging: Natural drainage and water retention areas are being destroyed.
- Depleting Ground Water: The loss of water bodies prevents the recharging of the water table.
- Fire Hazards: The loss of local ponds makes it difficult for Fire Services to access water during emergencies in congested areas.
The local community has warned that if the administration does not halt the illegal work and conduct a transparent probe, they will be forced to take the matter to higher authorities and launch a democratic protest.
Reported by: Tripura24.in Staff Reporter
Location: Dhaleswar, Agartala
