The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA), under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has given its approval for the enhancement and expansion of a two-lane road in Tripura. The sanctioned project involves an investment of Rs 2,486.78 crore, with a loan component of Rs 1,511.70 crore (JPY 23,129 million).
This road widening initiative, inclusive of paved shoulder, spans from kilometer 101.300 (Khowai) to kilometer 236.213 (Harina) along NH-208, covering a total length of 134.913 kilometers within the state. The primary objective of this undertaking is to foster improved road connectivity across various regions within the state and provide an alternative route to Assam and Meghalaya, complementing the existing NH-8.
The loan assistance for this venture will be extended by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) under the Official Development Assistance (ODA) scheme. The project aims to deliver well-constructed and navigable roads, taking into account the socio-economic requirements of the region. Enhancing NH-208 is anticipated to enhance interstate connectivity, reduce transit times, and ensure safer travel for commuters.
Notably, the project's route closely approaches the Bangladesh border, promising improved connectivity to Bangladesh through Kailashahar, Kamalpur, and Khowai Border Check Post. The road network development is expected to stimulate land border trade, fostering economic growth in the region.
The construction timeline for the project stretches over two years, encompassing the maintenance of these NH segments for five years (for flexible pavement) or 10 years (for rigid pavement) following the completion of construction.
News by Rahul Yelligetti