AMC to launch major eviction drive across Agartala from February 3

The Agartala Municipal Corporation (AMC) will launch a major eviction drive across the city from February 3 to clear footpaths and public spaces of encroachments. Traders operating illegally in the Battala Howrah Market without valid documentation from the AMC have been directed to vacate the premises by February 7.

Addressing a press conference at the AMC conference hall on Saturday, Mayor Dipak Majumder said that if the traders fail to comply, eviction proceedings will begin in the Howrah Market from February 8.

The Mayor said the Corporation has taken an initiative to redevelop the Howrah Market. The decision was taken at a meeting held on Friday in the presence of all councillors. Municipal Commissioner Saju Vaheed and officials from the Traffic Department, Task Force, Public Works Department, and Agartala Smart City also attended the meeting.

Majumder said that Agartala’s population is increasing rapidly, resulting in rising traffic congestion and changes in commercial activity, including the growth of large shopping malls. Keeping in mind the projected population growth over the next 20 years, the AMC has planned comprehensive urban development. The state government has also initiated plans to transform Agartala, Dharmanagar, and Udaipur into satellite cities. Additionally, the government is considering the construction of another flyover in Agartala.

He informed that three new pump sets will be installed at Sakuntala Road, Ramnagar 4th Street, and near Satsang Ashram to improve drainage facilities.

Stressing cleanliness and order, the Mayor said strict legal action will be taken against those conducting business or parking vehicles outside designated vending and parking zones. Vendors holding valid AMC licenses and operating mobile carts measuring 6 feet by 4 feet will be permitted to conduct business in the city until 11 PM.

Majumder further said that the AMC, in coordination with the Traffic Department, will prevent vehicles from being parked on covered drains. Restaurants, small hotels, and food stalls occupying covered drains will be removed to ensure smooth movement of pedestrians.

He said Chief Minister Dr Manik Saha has instructed that Agartala city be kept clean and beautiful. In this regard, the Chief Minister’s Cleanliness Award scheme has been announced. Under the scheme, clubs and social organisations contributing to city cleanliness will be awarded prizes—Rs 3 lakh for first place, Rs 2 lakh for second, Rs 1 lakh for third, and Rs 50,000 as a consolation prize.

The Mayor also mentioned that the Chief Minister has inaugurated several drinking water plants, and initiatives are underway to ensure safe drinking water supply across all AMC areas. Numerous development works are currently being executed jointly by the AMC, Agartala Smart City, Public Works Department, and Drinking Water and Sanitation Department, which are expected to be completed soon. He added that during road construction, measures will be taken to protect underground cables.

Majumder cautioned that no advertisements can be displayed without state government approval. The AMC will take action against those putting up advertisements on government buildings, offices, and light posts.

Deputy Municipal Commissioner Subrata Bhattacharya was also present at the press conference.