New Train Route from Agartala to Kolkata via Bangladesh to Significantly Reduce Travel Time
In a significant development for regional connectivity, a new train route linking Agartala, the capital of Tripura, to Kolkata via Bangladesh is set to revolutionize travel between these regions. The route, which leverages the geographical proximity of the northeastern states of India to Bangladesh, is expected to substantially cut down travel time and enhance economic and cultural exchanges.
Currently, travelers from Agartala to Kolkata endure a circuitous journey via Assam, which can take upwards of 38 hours. The new route through Bangladesh is poised to slash this travel time to approximately 15 hours, offering a much more efficient alternative. This reduction in travel time is expected to benefit not only daily commuters and tourists but also facilitate smoother transportation of goods.
The initiative is a result of collaborative efforts between India and Bangladesh to bolster cross-border infrastructure and foster stronger bilateral ties. The route will traverse through key Bangladeshi cities, including Dhaka, thereby providing a seamless transit option that integrates the railway networks of both countries.
Inaugural services on the Agartala-Kolkata route are anticipated to commence soon, with both governments ensuring the necessary logistical and security arrangements are in place. The service is expected to operate with modern, comfortable coaches equipped with amenities to cater to the needs of passengers.
Tripura Transport Minister Sushanta Chowdhury wrote a letter to Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw requesting him to introduce passenger and goods train services between Tripura and Bangladesh
Extending his warm wishes to the new Railway Minister for being entrusted with the charge of the Ministry for the second time in a row.
The Minister wrote, “I extend my warmest congratulations to you on your recent getting portfolio as the Union Minister of Civil Aviation, Government of India. It is indeed a matter of great pride and privilege for all of us in the transport sector to see your leadership at the helm of such a crucial Ministry.
- As the Transport Minister of Tripura, I look forward to collaborate closely with your esteemed office to further strengthen the infrastructure and services related to civil aviation in our state which has some issues i.e.
i. Declaring MBB Airport as International Airport & Operation of International Flights from MBB Airport as Ministry of Finance, Govt. of India has already declared the Agartala airport as Customs Check post.
ii. Extension / development and operationalization of existing Kailashahar Airport.
. Recently withdrawal of IndiGo flights on routes like Kolkata Agartala Lengpui (Aizawl, Mizoram), Kolkata-Agartala-Shillong, and Kolkata-Agartala includes flights IG7305, IG7954, IG7144, and flight 6E-6519 from Agartala to Kolkata has led to exorbitant Airfare in the sector. These flights are crucial for connecting Kolkata, Agartala, and Shillong, providing essential services. Their discontinuation inviting huge public criticism. This impacts on sectors like tourism, healthcare, emergency services, education, and the overall economy of the regions involved. Therefore, these services may kindly be immediately resumed or services in those routes may be arranged to start through other suitable air operators.
- Your vast experience and dedication to public service have been well recognized and it is obvious that under your able guidance, the civil aviation sector will achieve new heights of excellence and efficiency. Your vision for enhancing connectivity and ensuring the highest standards of safety and service in civil aviation is commendable, and it resonates deeply with our own goals here in Tripura.
4. Once again, congratulations on your well-deserved appointment. I am confident that your tenure will bring about positive transformations in the civil aviation sector, benefiting our nation as a whole.
- With warm regards and best wishes for your successful tenure”.
