Agartala: May 21 — Tourism Minister Sushanta Chowdhury convened a meeting with administrative officials from various departments to address the issue of water hyacinth infestation at Melaghar Rudrasagar. The decision to remove the water hyacinth and reopen Neermahal for tourists came after reports were published in Sandhya Patrika and Sandhya TV.
Despite the prevailing Model Code of Conduct, Minister Chowdhury personally visited Rudrasagar to assess the situation. He emphasized the urgency of removing the water hyacinth, which has spread more extensively this year. The Tourism Department will allocate funds to the Melaghar Municipality for beautification efforts, involving local residents and the Rudrasagar Cooperative Society. To ensure quality work, the Sub-Divisional Administration, Fisheries Department, and Forest Department will collaborate.
Minister Chowdhury highlighted the significance of Neermahal and Rudrasagar as traditional tourist destinations, aiming to attract more visitors. Regarding Rudrasagar’s navigability, he acknowledged its consistent water levels throughout the year. To enhance navigability, he proposed exploring modern technology in consultation with relevant departments, including Science and Technology, Fisheries, Forest, and State Water Resources. The final decision rests with the highest authority—the Chief Minister, Professor Dr. Manik Saha—whom Minister Chowdhury plans to engage in discussions.