AGARTALA, September 5 (TIWN): Already too fragile to call lifeline anymore the Agartala National Highway 44 connecting the neighbouring Assam and the high air fare had left the entire northeastern states of Tripura in dilemma just after the mega block conversion work on Agartala rail map was announced to begin from October 1. Despite the state has a buffer stock food grains according to the government statement the experts say that in view of the filthy condition of the NH-44 road, transportation of essential commodities and construction materials for the ongoing project works in state would be badly hit due to the shutdown of rail service.

Connecting the NE Tripura with the rest of India however a dream comes true despite the fact that state lacks an alternative communication system.

Prices of essential commodities started catching the climb since October 01, 2014 when the Mega Block was first announced. Market experts say the prices wouldn’t remain under control anymore. And black marketing is the obvious opportunity for hoarders, taking advantage of the impending crisis.

Besides, prices of air fare is also expected to fly even more higher from the existing price due to the conversion work and people who finds no alternative to the rail service chooses to travel by air. Though of course, the state looks ahead getting direct bus for Kolkata via Bangladesh by this September.

Emergency services like medical supplies, patient transportation, troops deployment might suffer difficulties.

Due to the 'Mega Block' for conversion of railway line from meter gauge to broad gauge, running of both passenger and goods trains in between Badarpur (southern Assam) and Agartala section would be stopped from September 20.

The 'Mega Block' has been granted until March 31, 2016 to complete the entire conversion work of the Badarpur-Kumarghat-Agartala section.