Rs 150 Crore projects of transport department underway: Sushanta

In a bid to modernize transportation services and boost infrastructure, the Tripura Transport Department is currently undertaking projects worth ₹150 crore across the state, focusing on both physical development and digital transformation. Transport Minister Sushanta Chowdhury emphasized timely and quality execution of these initiatives during a departmental review meeting held at the Sonartari Guest House Conference Hall on Saturday.

The projects, part of the Centre’s ‘Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment’ for 2024–25, encompass a broad range of developments—from constructing new motor stands and regional driving test centres to introducing cashless systems and e-challan mechanisms aimed at improving service delivery and transparency.

“We are not only building physical infrastructure but also strengthening digital systems for greater efficiency,” the minister said. The department has already transitioned to a fully cashless model, contributing to a revenue collection of ₹155 crore in the previous financial year—an increase attributed to enhanced transparency.

To streamline enforcement, the department is collaborating with the State Bank of India, Traffic Department, and National Informatics Centre (NIC) to create a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for the e-challan system. “This will ensure accountability and simplify traffic violation processing for both citizens and authorities,” Chowdhury stated.

Also in focus is the central government’s revamped 'Rah Veer' scheme, earlier known as the ‘Good Samaritan’ initiative. Now offering ₹25,000 to individuals who assist accident victims, the minister urged district transport officials and police to raise awareness about the program, noting that public participation remains low.

The meeting also stressed the need for inter-departmental coordination, with Chowdhury directing officials to ensure synergy with allied departments to maintain timelines and quality standards.

On the social front, the minister proposed taking Road Safety Week beyond the usual observance. “It must be extended to educational institutions and grassroots platforms to instill awareness from a young age,” he added.

The high-level review was attended by senior officials including Transport Secretary C.K. Jamatia, Commissioner Subrata Chowdhury, Tourism Director Prashant Badal Negi, and Traffic Superintendent Kanta Jangir.