AGARTALA: Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the Government of India have signed a USD 61 million loan agreement to improve the development process in Agartala city and assist in the capacity building of state agencies for improved service delivery.
The loan aims to enhance the liveability of the area by harnessing technology and promoting new development practices, keeping in mind the expanding city lines of Agartala.
Takeo Konishi, Country Director, ADB’s India Resident Mission signed the agreement for ADB, and Rajat Kumar Mishra, Additional Secretary, Department of Economic Affairs signed it for the Government of India.
Mishra stated that the loan agreement is aligned with India’s vision of the Smart City Mission. This loan will help in improving Agartala’s urban infrastructure in terms of better road connectivity, flood resistance, and making tourist attractions. This cooperation between ADB and the Government of India will help in catalysing their synergies and implementing smart city components in Agartala such as shifting electrical lines with an underground utility corridor, incorporating infrastructure for differently-abled citizens, and improving the road geometry along with urban design interventions.
The ADB representative stated that the provisions of asset management and sustainability strategies through capacity building will help flourish the tourism sector and improve the livelihood of people not just in Agartala but other neighbouring cities in Tripura.
Under the project, the storm water drainages will be upgraded and a 23 km long climate-resilient urban road will be constructed.