Land diversion for residential purposes has become a critical issue for Agartala and its surrounding areas. As the city rapidly expands, land is increasingly being diverted for housing, often at the expense of natural water bodies. This trend has not gone unnoticed by the district administration.
In response to inquiries, Dr. Vishal Kumar, IAS, the District Magistrate of West Tripura, acknowledged that years of land diversion had significantly altered the city’s land profile. Citing areas like Barjala and Lanka Basti, he described how previously water-filled areas had been transformed into residential neighborhoods.
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“The Barjala area, once characterized by water bodies, now presents a different landscape,” Dr. Kumar noted. “Similar changes have occurred in Lanka Basti, where land previously occupied by water bodies has been converted into residential plots.”
Dr. Kumar emphasized the need for a comprehensive strategy to address the issue. “We must adopt a balanced approach,” he said.
“On one hand, there is a shortage of land for housing as population pressure in the city and nearby areas, like Barjala and Lanka Basti, intensifies.”
He highlighted the city’s expansion, noting, “Agartala once covered only 31 square kilometers, but it now spans 64 square kilometers. Under the new development plan, the area is expected to grow to 121 square kilometers.”
While stopping land diversion altogether could create a land crisis, resulting in more landless residents, Dr. Kumar stressed the importance of adopting sustainable planning practices.
“We are collaborating with the Agartala Municipal Corporation to develop a comprehensive town plan, including proposals for creating water preservation wells,” he said, adding that a proposal for such wells in the Barjala area has already been submitted.
Dr. Kumar clarified that the goal is to conserve water, support disaster relief, and ensure adequate land for development that benefits residents. He also issued a warning, urging residents to avoid completely filling ponds due to the negative environmental impact, and cautioned that strict action would be taken against violators.
(Tripura, Northeast)
