TBM Staff - Mumbai In a significant move aimed at enhancing urban services and tourism infrastructure, the Asian Development Bank (ADB) has granted approval for a USD 100 million loan to the state of Tripura.
Expressing commitment to the state government’s priorities, ADB Principal Urban Development Specialist, Tomoo Ueda, stated, “ADB is committed to supporting the Tripura government’s priorities of improving urban services and tourism infrastructure to help boost economic development.”
The approved project will focus on upgrading urban water supply systems, including the installation of 42 kilometers of new transmission and distribution pipes, the establishment of four new water treatment plants, and the enhancement of 55 kilometers of stormwater drains. Additionally, it aims to enhance 21 kilometers of urban roads with features catering to the specific needs of diverse demographic groups such as the elderly, women, children, and disabled individuals.
The initiative also aims to strengthen the delivery of urban services by building the capacity of twelve urban local bodies in areas such as planning, infrastructure operations and maintenance, financial management, gender equality, social inclusion, and project management. Furthermore, the project will assist the state government in updating building regulations to incorporate spatial planning and green building principles, ensuring climate and disaster resilience.
With a focus on tourism development, the project aims to upgrade key tourist destinations in Tripura, including the Chaturdash Devata Temple in West District, Kasaba Kalibari, and Neermahal Palace of Sepahijala District. The enhancements will cover amenities, rooms, landscaping, and improvements to make these locations more visitor- and gender-friendly. The introduction of a digital museum and a new adventure park is also part of the plan.
In addition, the project will facilitate the development of a 10-year tourism business plan guiding marketing, promotion, and private sector attraction. It will also contribute to updating the state’s tourism policy, aligning it with current needs and trends. The infusion of ADB funds is expected to significantly contribute to the economic development of Tripura, positioning it as a gateway to the Northeast region.
