Tripura Seeks Centre’s Approval for ₹70 Cr Jampui, International Flights, Rail

Agartala, Mar 06, 2025, By Our Correspondent276

Tripura is poised to receive major infrastructural boosts as the state government seeks central approval for multiple tourism, railway, and aviation projects. Transport, Tourism, and Food & Civil Supplies Minister Sushanta Chowdhury shared the details of his recent visit to New Delhi, where he held meetings with senior Union Ministers to push for key developmental initiatives.

Speaking to the media, Chowdhury said, “We have submitted Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) and concept notes for three significant tourism projects in Tripura. We have sought Rs 70 crore for the renovation of Eden Tourist Lodge at Jampui Hills, along with the introduction of adventure tourism activities such as bungee jumping and skywalks. Additionally, projects for tea tourism and a special tourism initiative in Jirania have been proposed, bringing the total estimated investment to Rs 150 crore.” He added that Union Tourism Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat had assured prompt approval of the projects.

In addition, Chowdhury provided updates on the 51 Shakti Pitha project, which had already received Rs 97 crore in funding from the Centre. “A significant amount—Rs 67 crore—has been released, ensuring steady progress of the project at Banduar, Udaipur,” he noted.

On the railway front, Chowdhury met Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw to push for the introduction of a Vande Bharat train from Agartala, double-lane track expansion, and improved train cleanliness. He also urged faster completion of the railway link to the IOCL depot at Sekerkote, which would help maintain a buffer stock of petroleum products for three to four months. Requests for direct train services from Agartala to Guwahati, Gaya, Jammu, and Puri were also presented.

The minister’s discussions with Union Food and Consumer Affairs Minister Prahlad Joshi focused on the pending release of Rs 53.17 crore for food subsidies. Chowdhury confirmed that technical issues had been addressed and the funds were expected to be released soon. Plans for a Regional Office of the Food Corporation of India (FCI) in Tripura were also finalized, with land identification currently in progress.

In aviation, Chowdhury expressed optimism after his meeting with Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu. “The Union Minister has shown keen interest in reviving the Kailashahar airport in Unakoti district. Former Civil Aviation Minister and current DoNER Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia also endorsed the necessity of its operationalization,” he stated. Additionally, demands for a direct flight to Mumbai and a reasonable ceiling on airfare were placed before the minister. Efforts are also underway to upgrade Maharaja Bir Bikram (MBB) Airport in Agartala into an international airport, allowing direct flight connectivity to foreign destinations.