Dilapidated condition of NH raises concern in parts of Unakoti, North Tripura

 Large stretches of the Assam-Agartala National Highway (NH-8), considered the lifeline of Tripura, have turned into virtual death traps in parts of Unakoti and North Tripura districts causing serious concern among commuters and local residents.

Several portions of the highway in the Pecharthal, Nabincherra, Kumarghat, Kacharicherra and Sidongcherra areas are now in a severely damaged condition, putting thousands of vehicles at risk.

According to locals, massive potholes have developed at multiple points near Nabincherra. Continuous rainfall has filled these craters with water, making them resemble small ponds and creating extreme danger for motorists. In some places, sections of the road have caved in.

Residents alleged that the road has remained in this deteriorated state for months despite repeated appeals to the authorities. School students, ambulances carrying patients and daily commuters are all being forced to travel through the damaged stretch risking their lives every day.

Locals claimed that accidents have become a regular occurrence on the highway. “Two to three accidents are taking place almost every day. Last week, a truck overturned on the road. Bike riders are suffering injuries after skidding into potholes,” a local resident said.

Another commuter alleged that vehicles often move to the opposite lane to avoid potholes, increasing the risk of head-on collisions. 

“Fuel consumption is increasing and vehicles are getting damaged because of the road condition. We cannot continue like this forever,” he said.

NH-8 serves as Tripura’s primary link with the rest of the country and is crucial for the transportation of essential commodities, fuel and other goods. 

The poor condition of the highway is reportedly affecting transportation time in the state.

When contacted, NH officials in Public Works Department said repair work could not be started immediately due to the ongoing monsoon. They assured that restoration work would begin soon after the rainy season ends, although no specific timeline was provided.