Worth over Rs 2,752 crores, Union minister for road transport and highways Nitin Gadkari on Tuesday virtually laid the foundation of nine national highway projects in Tripura.
Gadkari said after completion of the projects, Tripura would get faster and hassle-free inter-state connectivity with neighbouring states and also Bangladesh.
The projects are targeted to be completed within three years, Gadkari said, adding, “Good connectivity is a prerequisite for any development and the Centre has emphasized on this in NE.”
There has been a series of initiatives for the development of air and waterways to make Tripura and other NE states growth engines for the country, Gadkari said. The projects would generate employment and expand the spectrum of self-employment opportunities, he added.
The minister further said the projects will give speedy access to healthcare and emergency services, boost tourism and also give an impetus to Tripura’s GDP.
The highway projects include the 21.4-km stretch of of NH-108A to connect Jolaibari and Belonia in South Tripura, 18.60-km stretch of NH-208 connecting Kailashahar and Kumarghat in North Tripura, 12.90-km of NH-08 from Khayerpur to Amtali bypassing Agartala city, 38.80-km Agartala–Khowai stretch of NH-108B, 36.46 km of Kailashahar to Kurti bridge of NH-208A and 36.54-km Manu-Simlung stretch of NH-44A.
Two RCC bridges over Muhuri in South Tripura and Gomati would also be constructed, while the 74.85-km stretch of Churaibari-Agartala section of NH-08 would be strenghthened with paved shoulders.