Footpath Encroachment, Waste Mismanagement Raise Concern Along Lichubagan–VIP Road Stretch in Agartala

By Our Correspondent

Agartala, February 17, 2026

Even though construction work on the VIP Road stretch from Lichubagan remains incomplete, reports indicate that footpath encroachment has already begun on a large scale, creating serious inconvenience for pedestrians and raising questions about urban management and public safety.

Incomplete Work, Yet Footpaths Occupied

Residents allege that several sections of the footpath between Lichubagan and Usha Bazar are gradually being occupied by some traders and informal vendors. As a result, pedestrians are being forced to walk on the main carriageway, increasing the risk of accidents on a road that is expected to become one of the busiest urban corridors in Agartala.

Locals say that despite the road not being fully ready for public use, commercial encroachment has started in full swing, reducing the usability of the footpaths for ordinary citizens. Elderly residents, students, and daily commuters are reportedly facing the greatest difficulty while moving through the area.

Another major concern highlighted by residents is the absence of adequate dustbins provided by the Agartala Municipal Corporation in several parts of the stretch. Due to the lack of proper waste collection points, many people are reportedly disposing of household waste directly on the footpaths and roadside areas.

Residents also claim that door-to-door waste collection does not cover every locality in the area. This has led to visible piles of garbage accumulating along the VIP Road corridor, creating unhygienic conditions and affecting the overall appearance of the newly developing road.

Locals further allege that municipal cleaning staff are rarely seen clearing these waste piles, allowing garbage to remain unattended for long periods.

According to local sources, there are discussions about inaugurating the four-lane road project from Lichubagan to Albert Ekka Park even though the full scope of construction work has not yet been completed. This has sparked debate among residents, with some questioning whether civic facilities such as footpaths, waste management, and pedestrian safety should be fully ensured before a formal inauguration takes place.

Citizens are calling for urgent intervention on several fronts:

Removal of footpath encroachments to restore safe pedestrian movement, Installation of adequate municipal dustbins along the corridor, Regular and visible cleaning activities by municipal staff, Completion of pending construction work before official inauguration.

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