In a bold political statement, Tripura Lok Sabha MP Biplab Kumar Deb has taken a sharp dig at the previous Left Front government. Blaming them for the long-standing drainage issues that once plagued the capital city. Speaking to the media on Monday, Deb credited the BJP-led administration for significant improvements in the drainage and sewerage systems in Agartala. Claiming that areas previously waterlogged for days now see water cleared within hours.
Improved Drainage a Result of BJP Governance, Says Deb
While addressing a press meet in Agartala, Biplab Deb criticized the previous decades of Left governance. Besides, stating that the drainage infrastructure remained neglected for years, resulting in chronic flooding during monsoons. “Under the Left, water would stay stagnant for two to three days after heavy rainfall. Today, it disappears in just two hours in most areas,” Deb asserted.
The former Chief Minister highlighted key infrastructure development initiatives launched under the BJP government since 2018. He said that systematic planning, funding from central urban schemes like AMRUT and Smart Cities Mission, and regular maintenance of drainage lines have significantly improved the situation.
Monsoon Preparedness Put to Test
The MP’s remarks come as Tripura experienced several days of heavy rainfall last week. Its triggering localized waterlogging in some parts of Agartala. However, unlike previous years, the floodwater reportedly receded within a few hours. Which Deb pointed to as a major success.
Local residents have acknowledged a noticeable difference in the city’s water drainage performance. Rajesh Dey, a shopkeeper in Battala, said, “Earlier, we had to shut down for at least two days after a downpour. But this time, the roads were clear by the evening.”
Drainage Revamp Projects in Focus
Under the BJP government, the Urban Development Department has reportedly laid over 25 kilometers of new drainage pipelines across flood-prone wards. Deb mentioned that additional funding is being pursued to cover remaining areas and prevent future waterlogging in densely populated zones.
He also noted that work is being undertaken in coordination with the Agartala Municipal Corporation (AMC) and Public Works Department (PWD) to desilt old drains and modernize sewage treatment facilities.
“We inherited a broken system. Fixing it hasn’t been easy, but our commitment has shown results,” Deb said. Calling upon citizens to cooperate by avoiding drain-blocking waste disposal.
Left Front Responds to Allegations
Reacting to Biplab Deb’s comments, CPI(M) leader and former minister Badal Choudhury accused the MP of politicizing civic issues for electoral gain. “When the Left was in power, we faced different constraints. If the BJP is truly solving drainage problems, that’s good—but blaming us repeatedly is unnecessary,” Choudhury said.
The CPI(M) also challenged the BJP government to release a detailed white paper on the drainage reforms. And actual budget allocations, stating that transparency is vital.
A Political Undercurrent to Development Discourse
Tripura’s drainage issue has long been a talking point during elections, and Deb’s remarks signal that civic infrastructure will continue to be a central plank in the BJP’s development narrative. The MP’s statements are expected to stir political debate as Tripura gears up for municipal and panchayat polls later this year.
As Tripura continues its urban transformation, citizens are encouraged to actively participate in keeping the city clean. Authorities have urged residents to avoid dumping waste into drains and to report any blockages to the Agartala Municipal Corporation.
For updates on infrastructure projects and development news, follow the Tripura Government portal and stay informed about upcoming civic initiatives.
With political leaders sparring over drainage politics, what remains clear is that urban infrastructure is now a priority topic—and its visible results are shaping public perception.