Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha’s efforts to address the deteriorating condition of the National Highway stretch between Kamalpur in Dhalai district and Khowai district have finally borne fruit, as the Centre has taken action in response to his persistent intervention.
According to an official from the Tripura Chief Minister’s Office (CMO), the 12-kilometre road, which is an important alternative route in the state, caught the attention of the Centre after Chief Minister Saha formally wrote to Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, on May 10, highlighting the urgent need for repair.
In response to the letter, the Union Minister informed via a written communication on July 22 that a delegation from the Central Road Research Institute (CRRI) had already inspected the highway between June 23 and 27. A detailed technical report based on this inspection is expected to be submitted to the ministry by August 15.
Furthermore, on the direction of the Union Minister, the Managing Director of the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL), Dr. Krishna Kumar, is set to visit Tripura on August 10. During his visit, Dr. Kumar will assess the progress and condition of various national highway projects across the state, including the Kamalpur-Khowai stretch.
The official highlighted that Chief Minister Saha has been consistently advocating for the repair of the highway, engaging in both official and personal discussions with the Union Minister. In an effort to expedite the repair process, he has instructed the state Public Works Department (PWD) Secretary, Kiran Gitte, to closely coordinate with central authorities and ensure timely action.
The state government is hopeful that the central-level response will lead to swift improvements in this crucial road link, which plays a significant role in facilitating commuter traffic and economic activities in the region. The people of Tripura are eagerly anticipating the repair and maintenance of this vital infrastructure to ensure smoother and safer travel.
