Development Under Threat: NHIDCL Faces Obstacles in Building New Highway in Gomti Tripura
The NHIDCL highway project from Jatanbari to Karbook via Shilachhari to Sabroom is facing serious challenges as unknown groups allegedly demanded ₹3 crore and later ₹1 crore from the agency. NHIDCL refused to give in, continuing its work to improve connectivity. Meanwhile, heavy rains have damaged old roads, and soil from the new construction has created slippery conditions, causing accidents and frustration among locals. Experts assure that within 2–3 years, the national highway will permanently solve these recurring problems. While NHIDCL has faced criticism for slow progress and poor quality in Tripura, the project is seen as a lifeline for the region’s future development.
NETB24
Agartala, Aug 20:
The dream of better connectivity for the people of Jatanbari to Karbook via Shilachhari to Sabroom is once again facing hurdles. According to secret information, some unknown groups are trying to block the progress of the National Highway project being constructed by the central agency NHIDCL (National Highways & Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited).
It is learned that these groups allegedly demanded a huge sum—first ₹3 crore, and later ₹1 crore—from the construction agency. But NHIDCL, determined to complete the work for the benefit of the people, refused to give in to such pressure.
Roads Damaged, People Suffering
For the past two years, heavy rains have damaged the old road, and as construction of the new highway is underway, soil from the new road has started mixing with the old track. This has caused slippery conditions, leading to accidents and making life miserable for local commuters. Villagers say cars and bikes often slip while crossing the stretch, and some people have even tried to block the road in protest.
Hope for the Future
Experts believe this suffering is temporary. “The people of this region face the same road problems every year, but this time the permanent solution is coming in the form of a national highway. Within 2 to 3 years, this road will completely change the life of the people,” a senior engineer shared.
Challenges Ahead
Despite its efforts, NHIDCL has been criticized in Tripura for substandard construction, environmental issues, and delayed compensation. Even Chief Minister Manik Saha has urged NHIDCL to improve the quality of road work and speed up repairs, especially on stretches like bypass NH-208, which recently developed cracks.
A Plea to the People
The people of Gomti Tripura have waited decades for proper connectivity. Now, as India builds faster and stronger networks to link the Northeast with the rest of the nation, any attempt to extort money or block development is not just an attack on NHIDCL but an attack on the future of the region.
By Choba Tripura
