HM Shah to review Indo-Bangla borders in Tripura, smart surveillance to be adopted: CM 

Union Home Minister Amit Shah is scheduled to visit Tripura this week to assess the state's border security infrastructure and review the progress of fencing along the international borders with Bangladesh before the proposed introduction of advanced smart border management systems, Chief Minister Dr Manik Saha said on Tuesday.

Addressing reporters after an event here in Agartala, Dr Saha said the Home Minister's visit is primarily focused on evaluating border-related issues and identifying areas requiring urgent intervention.

"Border fencing and security will be the main focus of the Home Minister's visit. While it may not be possible for him to physically inspect every problematic stretch of the border, he will visit some of the critical locations where immediate attention is required," the Chief Minister said.

Dr Saha revealed that the Centre is considering the implementation of smart border management solutions in Tripura as part of a broader strategy aimed at strengthening security along the international borders of eastern and northeastern states. Similar initiatives are also expected to be introduced in Assam and West Bengal.

The proposed measures are intended to enhance surveillance capabilities, improve border monitoring, and address challenges associated with securing sensitive stretches of the international frontier.

According to the Chief Minister, Union Minister Amit Shah will arrive in Agartala on June 4. Although his visit begins a day earlier, the major public engagements are scheduled for June 5.

Apart from reviewing border security arrangements, Shah is also expected to participate in a programme linked to the redevelopment of Pushpabanta Palace. The historic royal property is being transformed into a luxury heritage hotel while preserving its architectural character and historical significance.

Dr Saha noted that the state government had earlier signed an agreement with the Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL), part of the Tata Group, to undertake the redevelopment project.

The Chief Minister also informed that he will make two important presentations during the upcoming meeting of the North Eastern Council (NEC). One presentation will focus on strategies to attract greater investment to the Northeast, while the other will deal with regional connectivity challenges and infrastructure development.

"I have been entrusted with leading committees tasked with formulating policies to boost investment in the Northeast. During the NEC meeting on June 4, I will present recommendations on investment promotion and infrastructure expansion," Dr Saha said.

He added that connectivity bottlenecks remain a major concern for the region and discussions at the NEC meeting will explore measures to improve transportation and infrastructure networks across the Northeast.

"The other chief ministers will also present reports and recommendations in their respective assigned sectors," he added.

The Chief Minister's remarks came after he reviewed arrangements at Pushpabanta Palace, where preparations are underway for the foundation stone laying ceremony connected with the heritage hotel's development project.