Chief Minister Dr Manik Saha inaugurated a multi-level car parking and commercial complex at Old Motorstand in Agartala on October 8, with the facility aimed at improving parking management, easing traffic pressure and supporting the city’s modern infrastructure.
Key Takeaways:
1) Chief Minister Manik Saha inaugurated a multi-level car parking and commercial complex at Old Motorstand.
2) The project was developed under the PPP model without direct government spending on construction.
3) The facility is expected to ease traffic congestion, create jobs and support Agartala’s urban development.
Agartala has added a major urban infrastructure facility with the opening of a new multi-level car parking and commercial complex at the Old Motorstand area. Chief Minister Prof. (Dr.) Manik Saha inaugurated the project and said it would help address parking problems and reduce traffic congestion in the city.
The project also reflects the government’s focus on modern urban infrastructure. It was developed under the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model. The arrangement has allowed the government to develop the facility without spending money on its construction.
Project completed after regular monitoring
Speaking at the inauguration, Manik Saha said the foundation stone for the project was laid in 2022. The government monitored the work regularly to ensure timely completion.
The facility has now become operational.
The Chief Minister recalled the earlier condition of the Old Motorstand area. He said the locality had once witnessed disorder and frequent disputes. He referred to incidents involving alleged forcible occupation of land in the name of party unions and unnecessary conflicts between vehicle owners and motor workers.
According to him, the situation has changed with time.
Saha said the present government is not against motor workers or vehicle owners. Instead, it is taking steps to protect their interests by providing arrangements for seating and vehicle parking.
At the same time, the government is working to equip Agartala with modern infrastructure.
PPP model to generate government revenue
The Chief Minister highlighted the financial structure of the project. He said the facility was developed through the PPP model and the government did not have to spend money on its construction.
Private investors have instead offered a land premium to the government for using the space. The arrangement will also provide the government with a fixed annual income.
Saha expressed hope that the new facility would help reduce traffic congestion in Agartala.
He also warned that authorities would take legal action against illegal parking. The move aims to keep traffic movement normal across the city.
The Chief Minister said similar parking facilities could come up at other locations in Agartala.
Focus on urban planning and development
Saha said the government has implemented a series of development projects since 2018. He added that the state now has proper direction for urban planning and development, including areas under the Agartala Municipal Corporation.
He said the government is working to turn its development vision into reality under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
The project is also expected to create employment. Saha said a large number of unemployed youths would get job opportunities through the new facility.
He also said a large Unity Mall is under construction at Badharghat. The government has set a target to complete the project by March next year.
Bamboo and cane handicrafts showcased
The Chief Minister thanked the investors for showcasing Tripura’s bamboo and cane handicrafts through the interior decoration of the complex.
He also appealed to citizens to cooperate in ensuring the successful operation of modern infrastructure projects.
Saha urged people to maintain discipline and prevent disorder at the new facility. He said the government wants to take Tripura further while maintaining peace in the state.
Dipak Majumder highlights benefits for Agartala
Agartala Municipal Corporation Mayor and MLA Dipak Majumder described the inauguration as an important occasion for Agartala residents, people across the state and tourists.
He said the advanced infrastructure became possible under the leadership of Chief Minister Manik Saha.
Majumder noted that Agartala’s population and public requirements have increased over time. At the same time, improved railway connectivity has reduced pressure on the Old Motorstand.
The unused space at the Motorstand has now been utilized to create the multi-level parking and commercial complex, he said.
Majumder expects the project to bring positive changes to traffic management and the appearance of the area.
He also said the Smart City Mission, Urban Development Department, AMC and other concerned agencies are working together for the overall development of Agartala.
According to him, Tripura’s peaceful and investment-friendly environment is encouraging private investors to undertake major projects.
Officials attend inauguration
Director of Tirupati Limited Umang Meol delivered the welcome address at the programme.
Deputy Mayor Manika Das Datta, Corporator Ratna Datta, Secretary to the Chief Minister Kiran Gitte, Urban Development Secretary Milind Ramteke and AMC Commissioner Saju Vaheed A. attended the event.
Smart City Limited CEO G. Nayek delivered the vote of thanks.
Before the programme began, Chief Minister Manik Saha inspected the complex. He visited its different sections and enquired about the various components of the facility.
