Agartala Shines in Lights but Stinks on Streets: Citizens Demand Functional Toilets, Not Flex Boards

By Our Correspondent

Agartala, October 6, 2025

Even as Agartala dazzled in decorative lights and flex boards during Durga Puja, residents expressed outrage over the lack of functional public toilets across the city. The problem, worsened by ongoing Smart City projects, has left citizens, particularly women and the elderly, struggling for basic sanitation facilities.

From Ashram Chowmuhani to Battala, Nagerjala, and Post Office Chowmuhani, most public toilets remain either locked, broken, or emitting unbearable stench. Locals say the old Sulabh toilets near Motor Stand and Shanitla are unusable, while new ones under construction have been delayed for years.

Citizens took to social media during and after the Puja to vent their frustration, pointing out that while crores are being spent under the Swachh Bharat Mission and Smart City Project, basic hygiene needs remain unmet.

Many City Residents lamented that despite massive spending on lighting, banners, and decorations, the city failed to provide even a few clean, functional toilets and drinking water facilities during the biggest festival of the year.

Many demanded that the administration focus on essential civic amenities rather than cosmetic beautification. As one citizen and resident fo Post Office Choumohani Dilip Das summed up, “We don’t need new banners, we need clean, usable toilets. Development should start with dignity.”

Agartala’s festive lights may have shone bright, but behind the glow, its people suffered in silence for one of the most basic human needs, sanitation.

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