AGARTALA: Tripura’s Rudrasagar Lake, home to the majestic Neermahal Palaceis enduring an unexpected invasion – water hyacinth, an insidious aquatic plant.
In response to the looming crisis, Tourism Minister Sushanta Chowdhury has issued a directive to officials from various departments, urging them to tackle the menace head-on.
On a visit to the site on Tuesday, Minister Chowdhury witnessed firsthand the extent of the damage wrought by the invasive plant.
Undeterred, he reassured the public of imminent restoration efforts, promising swift action to rectify the situation.
With the weight of history and the hopes of the community resting on his shoulders, the minister pledged to spare no effort in reclaiming Rudrasagar Lake from the clutches of the water hyacinth.
But the road to restoration was not without its challenges.
Delays caused by electoral code restrictions had hampered initial intervention efforts.
However, with the bureaucratic wheels now set in motion, removal operations were poised to commence without delay.
The Melaghar Municipal Council, in partnership with the Fishermen’s Cooperative Society and local residents, stood ready to spearhead the eradication efforts, armed with determination and resolve.
As the battle against the water hyacinth raged on, its economic toll became increasingly apparent.
Declining tourist numbers and dwindling revenues served as stark reminders of the urgency of the situation.
As the invasive species spread its tentacles across the once-pristine waters, boating activities ground to a halt, and tourists found themselves barred from accessing the historic palace.
Minister Chowdhury acknowledged the economic impact and underscored the importance of restoring navigability to the lake, ensuring that tourism – a vital lifeline for the region – could once again flourish.
In a display of unity and collective resolve, administrative officials from various departments converged on Rudrasagar Lake.
With their combined efforts and unwavering commitment, Tripura’s Rudrasagar Lake stood poised to reclaim its rightful place as a jewel in the crown of the state’s cultural heritage.
