Capital Chokes Under ‘Smart City’ Rush: Dust, Traffic Chaos and Sudden Curbs Leave Agartala Reeling Ahead of Union Home Minister’s Visit

By Our Correspondent

Agartala, February 20, 2026

The capital city is grappling with severe public inconvenience as ongoing Smart City projects, combined with abrupt traffic restrictions ahead of the visit of Union Home Minister Amit Shah, have thrown normal life into disarray.

Across major stretches of Agartala, simultaneous road digging, drainage construction, and infrastructure works have left the city blanketed in dust. Residents say the situation has reached a breaking point, with pedestrians, daily commuters, and small traders bearing the brunt of what they describe as unscientific and poorly coordinated execution of development projects.

It is alleged that large portions of city roads have been dug up at the same time for Smart City-related works. In many areas, drainage construction and road repairs are being undertaken simultaneously, without adequate traffic diversion planning or dust-control measures.

It also alleged that severe dust pollution affecting air quality and reduced accessibility to markets and business zones. Street vendors and small traders say their livelihoods have been directly hit by the prolonged disruptions.

Adding to the chaos is the absence of adequate parking infrastructure. With no systematic parking arrangements in key areas of the city, vehicles are forced onto narrow roads already reduced by construction work. This has significantly worsened congestion, especially during peak hours.

Commuters allege that urban planning has failed to factor in the growing number of vehicles in the capital, leading to daily gridlocks.

While the Union Home Minister’s visit had reportedly been finalized nearly a week in advance, new traffic regulations were enforced just hours before the commencement of the visit. Drivers were caught off guard by last-minute diversions and restrictions, leading to widespread confusion and frustration.

Motorists complained that no prior public awareness campaign was undertaken and traffic advisories were issued too late.

Alternative routes were either unclear or equally congested.

The abrupt implementation of traffic curbs, without adequate preparation or public communication, triggered citywide jams and stranded commuters for hours.

Residents across Agartala say dust from ongoing construction has engulfed the city’s air. In the absence of regular water sprinkling or protective barricading at work sites, fine particles are spreading into homes, shops, and public spaces.

Health-conscious citizens and vulnerable groups including children and the elderly have expressed concern over respiratory discomfort and worsening pollution levels.

more news...