“Not Riverbank Protection, But A Fortress Of Corruption! Entire Project Under Question”.

Dharmanagar, Tripura, 3rd of May 2026 : Widespread anger and resentment have erupted among residents over the ongoing L.I. scheme aimed at preventing riverbank erosion near Ward No. 1 of Ichai Sonapur area under Kalacherra block in Dharmanagar subdivision of North Tripura. Allegations have surfaced that this crucial public welfare project has effectively turned into a “platform for loot,” with little regard for quality, leading to blatant misuse of government funds.

According to local residents, the concrete blocks being constructed for erosion control are far from standard. The amount of cement used is reportedly minimal, with most of the structure consisting of sand and substandard materials. As a result, many blocks are crumbling even before being placed along the riverbank. This clearly indicates not only poor quality work but also a completely unscientific and irresponsible execution.Although the project is being implemented under the Dharmanagar Water Resources Development Department, locals allege that there is virtually no effective supervision. The contractor reportedly in charge is Siddhartha Chakraborty, a controversial figure in Dharmanagar, locally accused of being a “sand mafia” operator.

Residents further claim that due to his alleged close association with late MLA Vishwabandhu Sen, he has been securing major government contracts for years. Since the BJP-led government came to power in the state in 2018, locals allege that Chakraborty has received numerous large-scale projects, amassing assets worth several hundred crores—raising serious suspicion and anger among the public.

For the people of Ichai Sonapur, this river erosion control project is directly tied to their survival. Every monsoon, many families face severe losses due to erosion, with constant fear of losing their homes and land. Seeing such poor-quality work in a vital project has left them deeply frustrated. As one resident put it, “If this continues, it won’t stop erosion—it will make the situation worse.”Questions are also being raised about the role of the administration. Locals allege that concerned officials are either turning a blind eye or deliberately ignoring the irregularities, allowing the contractor to continue substandard work without obstruction. This has led to a growing erosion of public trust in the current state government.

Residents have strongly demanded that the project be halted immediately and a high-level, impartial investigation be initiated. They insist that the quality of work must be thoroughly assessed and strict action taken against those responsible. Additionally, they call for a fresh start to the project with proper planning and quality standards to ensure effective erosion control.

Overall, the situation in Ichai Sonapur raises a critical question—are government projects truly meant for public welfare, or are they becoming tools to serve the financial interests of a few influential individuals? If swift action is not taken, the growing public outrage may escalate further.

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