Agartala, September 9:
The Tripura government has directed departments involved in major infrastructure projects under the Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI) scheme to step up coordination, remove execution hurdles and ensure that sanctioned works are completed within the stipulated timelines.
The direction came during a review meeting chaired by Transport and Tourism Minister Sushanta Chowdhury at the state secretariat on Wednesday, where the progress of priority projects under the Transport Department was examined in detail.
Officials from the Public Works, Transport, Rural Development, Tourism and Water Resources departments took part in the meeting and briefed the Minister on the status of ongoing works. The review covered projects progressing smoothly as well as those facing administrative, operational or other implementation-related challenges.
Chowdhury asked the departments concerned to take prompt action on pending issues instead of allowing procedural matters to slow down execution. He also stressed the need for greater accountability among agencies responsible for implementing the projects.
According to the Minister, SASCI assistance offers an important opportunity for Tripura to expand its infrastructure capacity and improve connectivity. He said investments in transport infrastructure have wider implications for the state’s economy, affecting the movement of people and goods as well as tourism and commercial activity.
“These projects are not just about infrastructure; they are about strengthening the backbone of Tripura’s economy and improving the daily lives of our citizens,” Chowdhury said.
The Minister called for closer coordination among departments, particularly because several infrastructure projects involve multiple areas such as road construction, rural connectivity, tourism facilities and water-related works.
Officials were instructed to identify potential obstacles during the implementation process and resolve them through timely intervention. The government also emphasised that the drive for faster completion should be accompanied by strict attention to construction quality and durability.
The SASCI scheme is aimed at supporting capital investment by providing financial assistance to states for the creation of durable public assets. Tripura has been utilising the assistance for development works across key sectors, with transportation and connectivity occupying a significant place among its infrastructure priorities.
The government expects improved connectivity to strengthen links between rural and urban centres and facilitate the movement of agricultural produce, goods and passengers. Enhanced transport infrastructure could also contribute to tourism development and create better conditions for economic activity in different parts of the state.
The latest review assumes significance as the government seeks to convert sanctioned projects into completed assets within the targeted schedule. Rather than allowing delays to accumulate, departments have been asked to maintain continuous monitoring and take corrective measures wherever necessary.
The Transport Department will continue to oversee the progress of priority projects, while coordination with other departments will remain crucial for resolving issues involving land, construction, connectivity, tourism and water resources.
The government has made it clear that timely completion, effective utilisation of funds and quality execution will be key priorities as Tripura moves ahead with infrastructure development under the SASCI framework.
