The Tripura government has renovated and beautified the historic Ujan Abhoynagar Market pond under AMRUT 2.0 to improve the local environment, provide public recreational space and support the broader effort to make Agartala a modern and liveable city, Chief Minister Prof. Dr. Manik Saha said.
Key Takeaways:
- CM Dr. Manik Saha said Tripura is working to make Agartala and other urban areas modern, environment-friendly and liveable.
- The Ujan Abhoynagar Market pond has undergone renovation and beautification under AMRUT 2.0.
- The government has urged citizens to protect restored water bodies and prevent waste and plastic pollution.
Tripura Chief Minister Prof. Dr. Manik Saha said the state government is focusing on urban development that combines modern infrastructure with environmental protection. He made the remarks while inaugurating the renovated and beautified historic pond near Ujan Abhoynagar Market in Agartala on October 3.
Urban Development Beyond Concrete Structures
Dr. Saha said the government’s urban development approach extends beyond the construction of roads, buildings and other concrete infrastructure.
He said the government also wants to improve the quality of life for residents. At the same time, it aims to protect the natural balance of urban areas.
According to the Chief Minister, holistic development must combine infrastructure with environmental protection. The restoration of old ponds and water bodies forms part of that approach.
Focus on Restoring Traditional Water Bodies
Dr. Saha said several traditional ponds and water bodies in Agartala and other parts of Tripura had faced the risk of disappearing over the years.
Neglect, inadequate maintenance and poor planning contributed to the problem, he said.
The Chief Minister also pointed to the wider environmental impact of losing water bodies. He said filling up ponds damaged the urban environment and contributed to drainage problems during the monsoon.
After the present government assumed office, it began working with the Agartala Municipal Corporation and concerned departments to identify and restore old and important water bodies across the city, Dr. Saha said.
The initiative seeks to revive these traditional water bodies while integrating them into the city’s broader development plans.
Ujan Abhoynagar Pond Gets New Facilities
The Ujan Abhoynagar Market pond has received a comprehensive renovation and beautification package under AMRUT 2.0.
The project includes boundary protection around the pond. It also provides walking paths for residents.
The renovated site has adequate lighting and benches. Landscaped green spaces have also been developed around the pond.
Dr. Saha said the improvements have created a more pleasant public space for morning walkers and local residents.
The facility now offers residents a place for leisure and relaxation. The project has also improved the overall appearance of the locality.
Push to Make Agartala More Liveable
The Chief Minister said the government is pursuing several initiatives to transform Agartala into a smart and liveable city.
Modernising the drainage network remains one of the key areas of focus. The government is also working on alternative roads to help ease traffic congestion.
Other initiatives include the installation of solar power systems and streetlights. The government is also focusing on the conservation of parks and water bodies.
Dr. Saha said the urban development drive extends beyond the state capital.
Similar development works are taking place in district headquarters, municipal council areas and Nagar Panchayat areas across Tripura.
Citizens Urged to Protect Public Assets
Dr. Saha appealed to citizens to take responsibility for protecting public infrastructure and restored water bodies.
He said the government creates public projects for community use. However, their protection and maintenance require collective responsibility.
The Chief Minister specifically urged local residents and business associations not to dump plastic, thermocol or other waste in ponds or nearby areas.
He called for active public cooperation to keep the surroundings clean and prevent pollution.
The appeal comes alongside the government’s efforts to restore urban water bodies and improve public spaces. Maintaining these facilities, Dr. Saha said, requires continued participation from the local community.
Officials Attend Programme
Agartala Municipal Corporation Mayor and MLA Dipak Majumder attended the programme along with Additional Commissioner Mihir Kanti Gop and Deputy Mayor Monika Das Dutta.
Corporators Hiralal Debnath and Pradip Chanda were also present. Commissioner Saju Wahid, other elected representatives and officials attended the inauguration programme.
