Agartala Lighthouse Project: 278 flats handed over as two blocks open

Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha on Thursday, October 29, opened two completed blocks of the Agartala Lighthouse Project, making 278 flats ready for families from economically weaker and low-income groups.

The new homes are in blocks A and F of the project, located near the Akhaura border in Agartala. Saha handed over keys to a few beneficiaries at the ceremony, while Union Housing and Urban Affairs Minister Manohar Lal joined the programme online.

About the project

• Total size: 1,000 flats across seven blocks
• Ready now: 278 flats in two blocks
• Flat size: about 30 square metres (roughly 320 sq ft) each
• Technology: light gauge steel frame construction

Agartala is one of six cities chosen for the Centre's Light House Projects, launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to demonstrate newer, faster building technologies for affordable urban housing. The government describes light gauge steel framing as quicker, more sustainable and more cost-effective than conventional brick-and-concrete construction.

Delays along the way

Speaking at the event, Saha acknowledged that the project had run into administrative and financial hurdles at various stages. He said these were sorted out with help from the Union minister and other stakeholders, and expressed hope that the remaining five blocks would be finished and handed over on schedule.

No completion date for the remaining blocks was announced at the event.

Call to keep the complex liveable

The Chief Minister said the aim was to give families more than a roof, arguing that a permanent home brings stability and a better quality of life. He stressed the need for regular maintenance, sanitation and basic civic amenities in the complex and urged the incoming residents to work together to keep their new neighbourhood clean.

He added that the state government remains committed to widening access to secure housing for poorer and low-income households in Tripura.