The Tripura Human Rights Commission (THRC) has taken serious note of public distress caused by unplanned and sluggish drainage construction in Agartala and has issued notices to key officials, demanding urgent accountability. In an order dated August 1, the Commission directed the Secretary of the state’s Urban Development Department, the Chief Executive Officer of Agartala Smart City Limited, and the Commissioner of the Agartala Municipal Corporation (AMC) to submit their responses within seven days.The intervention follows a formal complaint by the Forum for Protection of Environment and Water Bodies, a local environmental body. The complaint highlighted the dismal condition of roads and the inconvenience faced by residents due to ongoing drain construction work, especially during the peak monsoon season.
According to the complainant, the slow pace of work has led to large heaps of soil being left on roads, turning stretches into muddy, slippery, and at times impassable paths. Several areas of Agartala city, the complaint alleges, have remained partially or completely blocked for months, making it extremely difficult for people to walk or drive through.”The construction is not just an inconvenience but a potential threat to health and safety,” the complaint noted. It further stated that wooden planks used to temporarily cover drains are now lying inside the drains, blocking the sewage flow and worsening sanitation risks.The Commission noted that the situation has affected a large section of the population—especially residents of AMC areas and daily commuters—who are unable to access their own homes or move freely.
“Considering the gravity of the issue, which directly affects public life and safety, the Commission finds it appropriate to take cognizance of the matter,” the THRC stated in its order. The Commission has fixed August 12 as the date for the next hearing.
