Agartala 23rd July 2026 : The deteriorating condition of National Highway-8, regarded as Tripura’s lifeline, has sparked widespread resentment among residents living along the Jirania–Champaknagar stretch. Damaged roads, deep potholes, dust pollution during dry weather, and severe waterlogging during the monsoon have made daily commuting increasingly difficult, prompting locals to demand immediate government intervention.
Residents of Jirania, Madhabbari, Mohanpur, Ranirbazar, and Champaknagar alleged that the highway has remained in poor condition for a prolonged period despite repeated complaints. They said the lack of proper maintenance has severely disrupted public life, with commuters forced to navigate dangerous stretches every day.
Office-goers, students, traders, and transport operators are among the worst affected. Ambulances carrying critically ill patients also struggle to pass through the damaged road, often causing delays in reaching hospitals. During rainfall, potholes become submerged, making it difficult for drivers to assess road conditions and increasing the possibility of accidents.
“The highway is the state’s lifeline, yet people are suffering every day. We have been enduring this for months, but there is still no visible effort for a permanent solution,” a local resident said.
Another commuter expressed frustration, saying that travelling on the road has become a daily ordeal. “The dust during dry days is unbearable, while rain turns the road into a series of water-filled craters. It has become a serious safety concern,” the resident added.
Locals questioned why authorities have remained silent despite the persistent problems and urged the government to initiate immediate restoration work. They demanded comprehensive repairs rather than temporary patchwork to ensure safe and smooth transportation.
Residents also warned that if prompt action is not taken to restore the highway, they would be compelled to launch a large-scale public movement to press for a lasting solution to the long-standing issue.
