In an effort to accelerate the four-lane expansion and overall development of the Assam–Agartala National Highway (NH-8), Information and Cultural Affairs Minister **Sushanta Chowdhury** chaired a crucial discussion meeting on Wednesday at **Geetanjali Hall**, Ranirbazar.
The meeting saw the participation of local traders, shop owners and residents whose properties lie along the important stretch between the **Ranirbazar Fire Station** and the **Inter-State Bus Terminal (ISBT)** at Chandrapur in Agartala. Their involvement was essential, as several land-related concerns along this corridor have slowed the momentum of the highway expansion project.
Speaking at the interaction, Minister Chowdhury underlined that the primary objective of the meeting was to **identify, address and resolve land-related obstacles** that have been delaying progress. He highlighted that cooperation from stakeholders is vital for ensuring that the project advances smoothly and in accordance with the planned timeline.
Describing the exchange with affected parties as **fruitful, positive and solution-oriented**, Chowdhury said the discussions contributed to clearing longstanding hurdles. The minister noted that swift resolution of such issues is crucial for maintaining the pace of the NH-8 upgrade, which remains a top priority for the state government.
Reaffirming the government’s commitment to the timely completion of the project, Chowdhury said the four-lane expansion would significantly strengthen Tripura’s connectivity with the rest of the Northeast. He added that improved road infrastructure will lead to **enhanced trade opportunities, streamlined transportation**, and wide-ranging benefits for communities living along the highway.
The meeting concluded on a cooperative note, with both the administration and stakeholders agreeing to work together to facilitate the project. This consensus is expected to pave the way for **smoother and faster execution** of the NH-8 expansion in the coming months.
