Agartala, 11th August 2026: Aggrieved over a severe drinking water crisis that has continued for seven consecutive days, more than 100 residents blocked the Assam-Agartala National Highway at 36 Mile in the Krishnapur area on Tuesday morning, bringing traffic movement to a standstill.
The blockade continued for nearly four hours, resulting in massive traffic congestion on both sides of the highway. A large number of passenger and freight vehicles remained stranded, with the vehicle of state minister Kishor Barman also reportedly caught in the traffic jam.
Following information about the protest, personnel from Mungiakami Police Station reached the spot. Administrative officials, including DCM Sandeep Debbarma from the Sub-Divisional Magistrate’s office and officials of the Drinking Water and Sanitation (DWS) Department, also arrived and held discussions with the protesters.
Residents alleged that the drinking water supply in the locality has remained completely disrupted for the past seven days. Despite repeated complaints to the concerned department, they claimed, no permanent solution has been provided. Many families have reportedly been forced to travel considerable distances to collect drinking water, causing particular hardship to children, elderly people and the sick.
The protesters demanded immediate restoration of regular water supply and permanent measures to prevent similar disruptions in the future.
After prolonged discussions and assurances from the administration that steps would be taken to resolve the crisis at the earliest, the protesters withdrew the blockade after nearly four hours. Traffic movement subsequently returned to normal.
However, residents warned that they would launch a larger agitation if the drinking water crisis is not resolved promptly.
