ADB approves $85.4M loan for Tripura to improve industrial infrastructure in State boosting manufacturing, job creation, and global market integration.
Agartala Apr 9: The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved an $85.4 million loan to improve critical industrial infrastructure in Tripura to boost competitiveness in the manufacturing sector, promote job creation, and facilitate integration into regional and global value chains, a news release by the ADB mentioned.
The Tripura Industrial Infrastructure Development Project builds on ADB’s previous work in India on economic and industrial corridor development.
According to a news release issued by the organization, ADB provided a project readiness financing loan to the state government that laid the groundwork for building integrated, inclusive, and sustainable infrastructure in the state’s nine industrial estates covered under the project.
Besides, ADB’s technical assistance was aimed at enhancing the business environment, including the introduction of a new industrial policy to promote industrial development.
“The lack of quality infrastructure significantly constrains Tripura’s ability to attract private investment into manufacturing and accelerate industrialization,” said ADB Senior Public Sector Economist Sameer Khatiwada. “The project will address this gap by expanding transport, electricity, water, and sanitation infrastructure in the industrial estates, while strengthening institutional structures to improve the business environment.”
Key infrastructure upgrades in the nine industrial estates will include the construction of climate-resilient roads, stormwater drainage, culverts, and rainwater harvesting systems. Other upgrades include establishing energy-efficient power distribution systems, installing solar power facilities, developing streetlights, fire stations, weighbridges, security systems, and improved sanitation facilities.
Additionally, the project envisages the introduction of compressed natural gas buses and electric vehicles, along with charging stations at key industrial estates.
The project also emphasizes providing employment opportunities for women, including training and facility management positions. At least 300 square meters of land in each estate will be reserved for women-led enterprises, while dedicated daycare centers and gender desks will be established to support female workers.
ADB is a leading multilateral development bank supporting sustainable, inclusive, and resilient growth across Asia and the Pacific. Working with its members and partners to solve complex challenges together, ADB harnesses innovative financial tools and strategic partnerships to transform lives, build quality infrastructure, and safeguard our planet. Founded in 1966, ADB is owned by 69 members—49 from the region.
Notably the proposed Tripura Industrial Infrastructure Development Project will support Tripura’s industrial infrastructure development. The state government has prioritized the development of nine industrial estates with ADB’s support.
The project builds on due diligence and preparation completed under a $2.0 million project readiness financing (PRF) loan to develop integrated, inclusive, climate-resilient, and sustainable infrastructure at the industrial estates.
The project is aligned with the following impact: boost manufacturing sector’s competitiveness, enhance product diversification, promote job creation and foster regional cooperation.
