By TC News Desk
Agartala, 21st April 2025: The serene confluence of the Deo and Manu rivers at Halai Mora located in Kumarghat subdivision has become the center of a growing controversy. Residents of Kumarghat and Unakoti district have expressed intense dissatisfaction with the state Tourism department’s apparent neglect of this sacred and picturesque site.
Despite its potential to become a prominent religious tourism destination, Halai Mora has been overlooked in favor of other projects. The Tourism Department has reportedly allocated Rs 62 crores for the development of Chabimura and Rs 75 crores for Unakoti, yet no funds have been earmarked for Halai Mora. “If the Tourism Department had paid attention to Halai Mora, it could have been transformed into one of the state’s most revered pilgrimage sites,” said a local resident.
Halai Mora, situated just a short distance from Kumarghat town, is where two of Tripura’s major rivers converge. The site is considered sacred by many and has already gained popularity as a tourist attraction. Various Hindu religious ceremonies are held here, adding to its cultural significance. Last March, the Heritage Organization installed a massive stone idol of Ganga Mata at the site, marking the occasion with worship and festivities during the Baruni Mela. The event saw active participation from BJP office bearers in Kumarghat subdivision.
The BJP has since joined the call to develop Halai Mora into a religious tourism hub. However, criticism has been directed at Tourism Minister Sushanta Chowdhury, whose efforts are seen as insufficient. “The minister makes grand announcements about tourism development from Agartala, but the reality is far from promising,” alleged a local activist. Concerns have also been raised about the department’s financial priorities, including the appointment of former cricket captain Sourav Ganguly as a brand ambassador, which some claim has drained resources without yielding tangible results.
Residents recall that former Chief Minister Biplab Kumar Deb had once pledged to develop Halai Mora during a visit to the site. “He made promises, but they were never fulfilled,” lamented another resident. In contrast, Bhagwan Chandra Das, the area’s MLA, recently visited Halai Mora and assured locals of his commitment to its development. “We are hopeful that he will deliver on his promise,” said a local leader.
