Agartala: July 23: Tripura MP Biplab Kumar Deb met Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari in New Delhi on Tuesday to discuss the progress, quality, and future plans of various ongoing road projects in the state.
According to sources from Deb’s office, one of the key issues discussed was the necessity of constructing more RCC (Reinforced Cement Concrete) roads in Tripura, considering the region’s high rainfall. It was noted that traditional blacktop roads often deteriorate quickly due to waterlogging and surface runoff, leading to frequent repairs. In contrast, RCC roads offer greater durability and long-term resilience. Detailed discussions were held on promoting sustainable RCC road infrastructure across the state in the coming years.
Concerns over the quality of several road projects in Tripura were also raised during the meeting. The minister assured that a high-level inspection team would be sent to Tripura to assess the actual conditions and investigate complaints related to construction quality. If lapses or unethical practices are identified involving any agency, contractor, or official, strict action will be taken. The inspection team will primarily focus on verifying the quality standards of ongoing projects.
The demand for a long-term drainage system along NH-8 in Santir Bazar, recently raised by Deb, has been included in the Annual Plan for early implementation. Additionally, work on the RCC bridges over the Gomati and Muhuri rivers, as well as the Agartala-Sabroom approach road and bridges, is expected to be completed by November this year.
Progress on 11 other ongoing road and infrastructure projects in the state was also reviewed, with an emphasis on maintaining quality and ensuring timely completion.