Agartala, December 23, 2025: Tripura Transport Minister Sushanta Chowdhury on Monday called upon officials of the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) to strictly adhere to quality norms in the construction of national highways and to prioritise pedestrian-friendly infrastructure across the state.

Presiding over the 17th meeting of the State Road Safety Council at the Secretariat, Chowdhury underscored the importance of providing designated walking zones, footpaths and effective drainage systems along highways. He noted that inadequate drainage and the absence of pedestrian facilities often lead to road mishaps and cause serious inconvenience to commuters. The minister informed that he would take up these issues with Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari.

Highlighting the need to bring down road accidents, Chowdhury stressed the preparation of district-wise action plans and the implementation of comprehensive preventive measures. He reviewed recent accident statistics and evaluated the initiatives undertaken by the District Road Safety Councils during the meeting.

The Transport Minister directed District Magistrates and Superintendents of Police to prepare detailed proposals for a forthcoming review meeting to be chaired by Chief Minister Manik Saha. The proposed meeting will focus on district-level strategies, new initiatives and long-term plans to reduce accidents.

To strengthen public awareness, Chowdhury announced that a state-wide programme titled “Jagruti” will be organised this year, with the involvement of school and college students to spread awareness on road safety, consumer rights and addiction prevention.

He also asked district administrations to begin preparations for National Road Safety Month in January, ensuring coordinated participation of all concerned departments and elected representatives. Issues related to stricter enforcement of laws, suspension of driving licences and improved fine collection mechanisms were also discussed to enhance road safety in Tripura.