Tripura Chief Minister Prof. Dr. Manik Saha on January 12 said he would take up the issue of expansion and further development of the Churaibari check post in North Tripura district with the Assam government and Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma to ensure smooth vehicular movement and effective checking at the inter-state border.
Speaking to the media, Dr. Saha said the matter came to light during his recent two-day visit to North Tripura, where he stayed overnight on Saturday and Sunday. Following multiple complaints, the Chief Minister personally inspected the Churaibari check post and found the grievances to be genuine.
“The situation on the ground is different from what appears from an office. I visited the spot and found the complaints to be true. I have directed the administration to immediately address the issues. The government does not want such problems, and strict action has been ordered. If the situation does not improve, further steps will be taken,” Dr. Saha said.
He noted that a checking point on the Assam side, coupled with space constraints, often leads to traffic congestion. The Chief Minister said he would discuss the matter with the Assam government to explore options for expanding and developing the area to facilitate hassle-free vehicle movement and proper checking. He added that the issue would also be raised during the plenary session.
Dr. Saha also expressed concern over stone crushing units operating in the area, citing complaints of environmental violations. “The environmental condition there is very poor. As per rules, stone crushing units should be located at least 100 metres away from the National Highway. I was informed that many of these units were established during the Left Front regime and were not adequately monitored,” he said, adding that a meeting would be convened to ensure proper regulation.
The Chief Minister further pointed out that several trucks were found overloaded with stones, underscoring the need for reforms and stricter enforcement. He also visited the IOCL depot in the area, where he interacted with drivers and urged them not to pay bribes and to report any such incidents directly to his office.
“These practices will not be allowed to continue,” Dr. Saha said, adding that IOCL officials have been instructed to ensure all operations strictly follow prescribed rules and procedures.
