Corporator inspects cover drain projects

By Our Correspondent

Agartala, June 7, 2025

Under the Smart City project, work is underway to cover drains in various parts of Agartala city. However, the work is yet to be completed, and concerns have already been raised regarding the quality of the work. As a result of the covered drains, several new areas are experiencing waterlogging with the onset of the monsoon. One such affected area is the Durga Chowmuhani Market.

Local traders have complained that this market had never experienced flooding before. But this year, with the very first spells of rain, the market and its shops are already inundated. They allege that although the covered drains have been constructed, the shuttering material placed underneath during construction has not been removed. This is obstructing the natural flow of water, leading to accumulation on roads and inside shops.

In response to these complaints, Councillor of Ward No. 18, Abhishek Dutta, visited the affected area on Thursday along with officials of the Smart City project. He listened to the grievances of local traders and assured them that the issue would be resolved at the earliest.

The visit was aimed at inspecting the ongoing development work under the Smart City initiative and ensuring quality and proper supervision. Councillor Dutta stated, “The purpose of the Smart City project is to improve the quality of life for citizens, not to increase their hardships. The responsible agencies have been instructed to take immediate corrective action.”

Local residents and shopkeepers have demanded prompt intervention, warning that if the drains are not cleaned soon, the situation may worsen with heavier rainfall in the coming days.

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