Illegal Encroachments Along National Highways in Tripura: Ranjit Debbarma cites Supreme Court directions, raises concerns over public safety and pedestrian rights
By Our Correspondent
Agartala, July 2, 2026
Amid growing concerns over illegal encroachments along National Highways in Tripura, TIPRA Motha MLA Ranjit Debbarma has urged the West Tripura District Magistrate to take immediate action to clear unauthorized occupations on government land adjoining the highways, citing a recent direction of the Supreme Court of India.
In a letter dated July 1, 2026, addressed to the District Magistrate of West Tripura, the MLA requested the early eviction of illegal encroachers occupying land on both sides of the National Highway. The letter states that the encroachments have led to the establishment of permanent structures, including shops, tea stalls, motor garages, showrooms and car-washing centres, posing serious risks to commuters and pedestrians.
According to the MLA, these unauthorized establishments have resulted in large gatherings of people along busy highways, increasing the likelihood of road accidents. He further alleged that in some instances, fatal accidents have occurred due to such illegal constructions and roadside congestion.
The letter specifically mentions encroachments along the Agartala–Khowai National Highway, particularly between Lembucharra and Subalsing via Kamalghat, Fatikchhara, Mohanpur and Taranagar. It also alleges that some encroachers have damaged iron tree guards and road safety barriers installed by the authorities.
Ranjit Debbarma requested the district administration to remove the encroachments at the earliest in compliance with the Supreme Court's directions and to prevent further accidents and inconvenience to the public.
The issue of illegal occupation of National Highway land has remained a matter of concern for many residents. Encroachments and unauthorized roadside markets have narrowed road space in several locations, creating difficulties for pedestrians and motorists alike.
The Supreme Court has recently emphasized that public roads and footpaths should remain free from illegal encroachments and observed that the right of pedestrians to walk safely on unobstructed footpaths forms an essential part of the fundamental right to life under Article 21 of the Constitution.
Despite these judicial observations, critics allege that the Tripura administration has not yet initiated any large-scale drive to remove encroachments along National Highways in the state. The major opposition parties, including the Congress and the CPI(M), have so far remained largely silent on the issue.
Against this backdrop, the letter from TIPRA Motha MLA Ranjit Debbarma is the first significant political initiative in recent days calling for strict enforcement of the law and implementation of the Supreme Court's directives to ensure road safety and protect public rights.
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