The Tripura government has identified the Kamalpur-Santirbazar road as a top priority for national highway development, emphasising its strategic importance for connectivity and economic growth. The 148-km stretch is a vital link between northern and southern Tripura, playing a key role in trade, agriculture, and daily transport. Upgrading this road to a national highway is expected to enhance mobility, improve transport infrastructure, and stimulate regional economic activity.
The Kamalpur-Santirbazar corridor has long been a crucial route for passengers and goods transport, facilitating movement across districts. Its transformation into a national highway will strengthen intra-state connectivity, benefitting both rural and urban communities. The state government is actively pushing for central approval, aligning with its broader strategy of infrastructure expansion.
Economic and Social Impact
The Tripura government is prioritising this project due to its potential to boost socio-economic conditions, particularly in the Dhalai, Gomati, and South Tripura districts. The ?2,000 crore project is expected to uplift tribal communities, improve access to markets and essential services, and create new employment opportunities in the region. Better roads will facilitate faster transportation of agricultural produce, leading to higher efficiency and increased earnings for farmers.
Implementation and Planning
Developing the Kamalpur-Santirbazar road into a national highway requires extensive planning and collaboration between state and central agencies. Engineers and urban planners will assess terrain challenges, traffic density, and environmental impact before the construction phase begins. The project is expected to involve modern road-building techniques, ensuring durability, safety, and sustainability.
Additionally, the Tripura government has been advocating for four new national highways, recognising their long-term benefits for the state’s infrastructure and logistics. However, among these proposals, the Kamalpur-Santirbazar road has been given the highest priority for central approval.
Industry and Infrastructure Outlook
India’s infrastructure sector has witnessed significant investments in road development, with a focus on boosting regional connectivity. The National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) and Ministry of Road Transport and Highways continue to expand road networks, ensuring better integration between remote areas and urban centres.
Tripura’s emphasis on highway development aligns with India’s broader vision for strengthening transport infrastructure in the Northeast, enhancing trade routes, boosting logistics efficiency, and attracting new investments. Improved connectivity will also support tourism, industrial growth, and cross-border trade with neighbouring countries like Bangladesh.
With ongoing government initiatives and a clear focus on strategic road projects, Tripura is poised to enhance its infrastructure, fostering economic growth and regional development in the years to come.
