Tripura Chief Minister Prof. (Dr.) Manik Saha on Saturday inaugurated the comprehensive renovation, modernization and beautification of the heritage pond adjacent to Ujan Abhoynagar Bazar, saying the state government is committed to transforming Agartala and its peripheral urban areas into modern, eco-friendly and aesthetically pleasing places.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister said the government's vision extends beyond constructing infrastructure and concrete buildings. Instead, it aims to improve people's quality of life, protect the natural environment and ensure balanced urban development. He noted that many heritage ponds and water bodies across Agartala had deteriorated over the years due to neglect, poor planning and encroachment, leading to environmental degradation and drainage problems during the monsoon.
He said the state government, in coordination with the Agartala Municipal Corporation (AMC) and other departments, has launched a special drive to identify, restore and revive the city's old and important water bodies.
Highlighting the Ujan Abhoynagar pond project, Saha said the work was undertaken under the AMRUT 2.0 scheme. The project includes paved surroundings, a walking track, adequate lighting, seating benches and landscaped green spaces, creating a pleasant recreational area for local residents and visitors while significantly improving the area's appearance.
The Chief Minister credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership for supporting Tripura's urban transformation and said several initiatives are underway to make Agartala a smart and liveable city. These include upgrading drainage systems, constructing alternative roads to reduce traffic congestion, installing solar-powered streetlights and conserving parks and water bodies. He added that similar development works are being carried out in district headquarters, municipal councils and nagar panchayats across the state.
Calling upon citizens to protect public assets, Saha urged traders and residents to help keep the pond and its surroundings clean by avoiding the dumping of plastic, thermocol and other waste. He said preserving public infrastructure is a shared responsibility.
Speaking on the occasion, Agartala Municipal Corporation (AMC) Mayor and MLA Dipak Majumder said the pond was renovated and beautified at a cost of more than Rs 3 crore under the Centre-sponsored AMRUT scheme. He said the water body, once affected by encroachment, garbage and pollution, has been transformed into a modern public space through the initiative of the local corporator and the support of the Chief Minister.
Majumder said the AMC has prioritized improvements in roads, drainage, street lighting, parks and water bodies across all city wards since 2021. He added that ward offices have been strengthened to improve public service delivery and that preparations are underway for Durga Puja with a focus on road repairs, easing traffic congestion and clearing illegal encroachments from footpaths. He also said the "Chief Minister's Cleanliness Award" has been launched to encourage citizen participation in keeping the city clean, while restoration work is underway on around 24–25 old ponds and parks for tourism and recreational purposes.
Earlier, the Chief Minister unveiled the plaque and inspected the refurbished pond, walking track, landscaped gardens and other public amenities. A documentary showcasing the renovation and beautification project was screened during the programme. Additional AMC Commissioner Mihir Kanti Gope delivered the welcome address. Deputy Mayor Monika Das Dutta, councillors Hiralal Debnath and Pradip Chanda, AMC Commissioner Saju Wahid A and other public representatives and officials were also present.