The Haora Riverfront Project near Battala in Agartala was inaugurated by Chief Minister Prof. (Dr.) Manik Saha today, opening a nearly 1,700-metre modern public space designed around river conservation, recreation, fitness, civic amenities and urban beautification.
Key Takeaways
- The nearly 1,700-metre riverfront from Steel Bridge to Dashamighat was developed at an estimated cost of around Rs 96 crore.
- The facility includes walking paths, cycling lanes, viewing decks, an open gym, yoga space, zipline, playground and nature trail.
- Riverbank protection, environmental conservation and CCTV-based security form key components of the project.
A new riverfront facility along the Haora River near Battala has opened to the public, adding a large recreational and civic space to the urban landscape of Agartala. Chief Minister Prof. (Dr.) Manik Saha inaugurated the Haora Riverfront Development Project today on September 22.
The project covers nearly 1,700 metres between Steel Bridge and Dashamighat. It combines riverbank protection with recreational, fitness, cultural and public-use facilities.
Speaking at the inauguration, Saha said the government is working to make Agartala greener, cleaner, more modern and more liveable. He described the riverfront as another important step in the development of a modern Agartala.
The Chief Minister said the riverbank had previously served as a dumping area for waste and garbage. The project has now converted the stretch into a cleaner and more attractive space for public use.
Riverbank Protection at the Core of Project
The Haora River has long been linked with Agartala’s history, culture and civic life, Saha said. The project therefore places river conservation alongside urban development.
Several engineering measures have been introduced to improve the stability and protection of the riverbank. These include gabion walls, micro-piles, geotextiles and toe walls.
The project has been completed at an estimated cost of around Rs 96 crore. It also includes a five-year Annual Maintenance Contract.
Saha said the project addresses concerns related to riverbank erosion and waterlogging while also supporting environmental protection and the beautification of the city.
Before the inauguration, the Chief Minister inspected different sections of the riverfront. He reviewed infrastructure facilities, civic amenities, riverbank protection measures and beautification works.
Officials also briefed him on the management system and various components of the project.
Walking, Cycling and Recreation Facilities
The riverfront has been designed as a multi-purpose public facility. It includes walking paths and a cycling lane for visitors.
Viewing decks and an elevated walkway have also been developed along the stretch. Fitness and recreational facilities include an open gym, a dedicated yoga space and a zipline.
The project also provides facilities for children and nature enthusiasts. These include a children’s playground, bird aviary and nature trail.
Visitors will also find a food plaza and an art and craft village within the developed area.
The facility will remain open to the public from morning until 9 pm every day.
CCTV Security and City Control Centre Monitoring
Security arrangements form another component of the riverfront development.
CCTV cameras have been installed throughout the area. The surveillance system will be monitored through the City Command and Control Centre.
The Chief Minister urged residents to take collective responsibility for maintaining the facility. He appealed to citizens to keep the riverfront clean and reduce the use of plastic.
Saha said the new facility could support sports, recreation, health, social interaction and a healthier lifestyle among citizens.
He also stressed the importance of collective participation in achieving the vision of Shreshtha Bharat, Viksit Bharat and a developed Tripura by 2047.
Mayor Highlights Rehabilitation of Riverbank Families
Agartala Municipal Corporation Mayor and MLA Dipak Majumder said the project goes beyond beautification.
According to Majumder, the riverfront represents an effort to conserve the Haora River while creating a new public space for Agartala residents.
He said the Central and State governments jointly supported the project with an investment of around Rs 96 crore. Agartala Smart City Limited supervised the project.
Majumder also highlighted the rehabilitation of 37 riverbank families at Radhanagar. The rehabilitation package includes permanent housing, relocation expenses and livelihood support.
Documentary Showcases Riverfront Development
Officials screened a documentary on the project during the inauguration programme.
Saha and other guests also visited a blood donation camp organised by workers associated with the project. The Chief Minister encouraged the blood donors during the visit.
Urban Development Department Secretary Dr. Milind Ramteke delivered the welcome address.
MLA Mina Rani Sarkar, AMC Deputy Mayor Manika Das Datta, Chief Minister’s Secretary and Secretary of other departments Kiran Gitte, AMC Commissioner Saju Vaheed A, Agartala Smart City Limited CEO G. Nayak and other officials attended the programme.
Saha congratulated the workers, engineers, officials, employees and agencies involved in developing the Haora Riverfront Project.
