In a notable effort to improve urban services and strengthen tourism infrastructure, the Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved a $100 million loan for the northeastern state of Tripura.

Emphasizing ADB’s dedication to supporting Tripura’s governmental priorities, Tomoo Ueda, ADB Principal Urban Development Specialist, stated, “ADB is committed to assisting the Tripura government in enhancing urban services and tourism infrastructure to promote economic development.”

He further said, “The initiative aims to position the state as a key entry point to the northeastern region by enhancing tourist spots along national highways and by promoting improvements in urban governance and financial sustainability.”

The detailed project includes enhancing urban water supply systems by installing 42 kilometers of new transmission and distribution pipes, establishing four new water treatment plants, and improving 55 kilometers of stormwater drains, as outlined in the ADB report.

Furthermore, there will be enhancements to 21 kilometers of urban roads with specific considerations for the requirements of the elderly, women, children, and individuals with disabilities.

Besides, the state government will receive assistance in enhancing climate and disaster resilience and revising building regulations to include spatial planning and green building principles.

The tourism-focused aspect of the project aims to enhance significant sites such as the Kasaba Kalibari, Chaturdash Devata Temple, and Neermahal Palace. It includes enhancing facilities, accommodations, and landscaping to make them more visitor- and gender-friendly. Additionally, the initiative includes the creation of a digital museum and a new adventure park.