Poor road conditions on the Assam-Agartala National Highway between Pecharthal and Nabincherra in Unakoti have left commuters struggling. Large potholes, stagnant rainwater and mud are disrupting traffic, damaging vehicles and creating serious difficulties for patients, motorists and pedestrians.
Commuters travelling along a stretch of the Assam-Agartala National Highway between Pecharthal and Nabincherra in Tripura’s Unakoti district are reportedly facing severe difficulties due to the deteriorating condition of the road. Large potholes, stagnant rainwater and mud have made movement increasingly challenging for motorists, passengers and pedestrians, particularly during the ongoing monsoon season.
The affected stretch is considered an important road link connecting different parts of the state and facilitating the movement of people and goods. However, commuters said the condition of the highway has worsened considerably, with several portions becoming difficult to navigate after repeated rainfall.
According to local residents and regular commuters, numerous potholes have developed along the road. During rainfall, these potholes become filled with water, making it difficult for drivers to determine their depth and avoid them. As a result, vehicles are reportedly being forced to move slowly through the damaged stretches, while some have become stuck in potholes.
The poor road condition has also reportedly affected public transport operators, including Toto drivers who depend on the route for their daily livelihood. Drivers said navigating the highway has become particularly difficult during heavy rain, when mud and accumulated water further reduce road safety.
Toto driver Anupam Chakma said the road has remained in poor condition for more than six months. According to him, heavy rainfall makes vehicular movement extremely difficult and creates additional problems when patients need to be transported to hospitals.
“During the rains, vehicles have to move very slowly and sometimes remain stranded in queues for a long time. Taking patients to hospitals becomes particularly difficult,” Chakma said.
Another Toto driver, Gautam Nama, alleged that vehicles frequently get trapped in the large potholes. He said repeated movement through the damaged sections has resulted in damage to tyres and other mechanical components, causing additional financial burdens for drivers.
Gautam further alleged that repair work has been carried out periodically in some areas, but the repairs have often failed to provide a lasting solution. According to him, portions of the road reportedly return to poor condition soon after repair work is completed.
Jamal Uddin, another Toto driver, urged the concerned authorities to intervene immediately and repair the damaged stretches of the highway. He called for durable repair measures instead of temporary work that may deteriorate again after rainfall.
Local residents have also raised concerns over the quality and durability of repair work undertaken on the highway. While occasional repair activities have reportedly taken place, commuters said the measures have not adequately addressed the underlying condition of the road.
Some residents have alleged irregularities in the execution of road repair works and questioned whether contractors involved in the maintenance have ensured the required standards of quality and long-term durability. These allegations could not be independently verified.
Commuters said prolonged neglect of the damaged stretches is increasing their daily hardships and creating additional risks for road users. The combination of potholes, stagnant water and mud has reportedly reduced the effective width and usability of several portions of the highway, particularly during periods of heavy rainfall.
For motorists, the deteriorating road condition has not only increased travel difficulties but also raised concerns about vehicle damage and road accidents. Pedestrians and passengers are similarly facing difficulties while crossing or travelling through the affected areas.
Residents have therefore urged the concerned authorities to conduct an immediate inspection of the Pecharthal-Nabincherra stretch and undertake comprehensive repair and maintenance work. They have also called for proper monitoring of repair activities to ensure that the work meets the required standards and remains effective for a longer period.
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With the highway serving as an important connectivity route, commuters said restoring the damaged portions is essential for ensuring safer and smoother movement. They appealed to the authorities to take timely action before further deterioration during the monsoon makes the situation more serious.
