Agartala’s Durga Puja Traffic Restrictions Trigger Public Outcry on Ashtami Night too, Questions Raised Over Emergency Access
By Our Correspondent
Agartala, October 18, 2026
Traffic restrictions and alleged mismanagement continued to generate public criticism in Agartala on Ashtami night, with concerns being raised over the movement of ordinary visitors, access to GBP hospitals and the alleged preferential treatment of VIPs during Durga Puja pandal-hopping.
Despite the festive occasion, the number of visitors seen moving around several parts of the capital reportedly remained lower than expected. Critics attributed the situation partly to fears of traffic congestion, confusing restrictions and the inconvenience caused by barricades and no-entry boards. The allegations have reignited debate over whether the traffic arrangements have adequately balanced crowd management with the public’s right to move freely through the city.
Questions have also been raised over the reported movement of certain political leaders, ministers and MPs, accompanied by their family members, to Puja pandals in vehicles using VIP passes.
Critics alleged that traffic personnel worked overtime to facilitate the movement of VIP vehicles through crowded areas, while ordinary visitors faced restrictions and difficulties reaching their destinations. They also questioned whether emergency passes were being issued and used strictly for genuine emergencies or whether some holders were using them to visit Puja pandals.
The central issue, according to the criticism, is whether access privileges were being granted on the basis of genuine necessity and established rules or personal connections. Allegations that associates of political leaders, relatives and other influential individuals received passes while people with genuine needs were inconvenienced have also surfaced.
A major point of contention concerns the Durga Chowmuhani–Barjala–Airport Road corridor. According to a public grievance raised by retired government official Biswanath Bhattacharya, Joint Secretary and National Level Monitor, Government of India, the West Tripura District Magistrate and Collector had reportedly announced that the route would remain open, but traffic restrictions were subsequently imposed.
Bhattacharya questioned whether the restrictions at the field level were consistent with the publicly announced arrangement and demanded clarification regarding the authority responsible for the alleged closure.
The route is particularly important for people travelling between different parts of the city and destinations such as the airport and major healthcare facilities. Residents have complained that restrictions and inadequate alternative routes have made journeys difficult.
The allegations raise questions about coordination between the district administration and the Traffic Police. The authorities need to clarify whether any subsequent order authorised the restrictions, what circumstances justified them and whether the announced traffic plan was followed.
One of the most serious concerns relates to access to hospitals during the Puja period.
Residents have questioned how people travelling from Battala or Nagerjala towards GB Hospital and other healthcare facilities are expected to reach their destinations if key roads are blocked and clear diversions are unavailable.
Durga Puja attracts large crowds, and traffic management is necessary to protect pedestrians and prevent congestion. However, critics argue that such arrangements must include clearly marked emergency corridors, practical alternative routes and provisions for patients and their attendants.
They have stressed that hospital access cannot be treated as a secondary consideration during a festival. Even when restrictions are necessary, ambulances and other emergency vehicles must be able to move without avoidable delays.
In a formal representation addressed to the Director General of Police, Tripura; the Superintendent of Police (Traffic), Tripura; and the District Magistrate and Collector of West Tripura, Bhattacharya called for an immediate review of the disputed traffic arrangements.
Meanwhile,
Amid the criticism, Agartala Traffic Police issued a contrasting update on its Facebook page.
The department stated: “Pandal-hoppers and pedestrians are moving with ease, and traffic flow is well-regulated with zero congestion.”
The police also advised citizens to rely exclusively on official updates from Agartala Traffic Police and refrain from believing or spreading unverified rumours.
The statement presents the department’s assessment of traffic conditions, while the complaints raised by residents and Bhattacharya reflect concerns about road closures, emergency access and the practical difficulties experienced by sections of the public.
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