During the foundation stone-laying ceremony for the Agartala railway station’s redevelopment, Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha articulated the state’s potential as a gateway not only to Southeast Asian nations but also to numerous other countries, leveraging the strategic Chittagong Port in Bangladesh.
Saha highlighted the forthcoming inauguration of the Maitri Setu, spanning the Feni River, which will facilitate movement between South Tripura’s Sabroom sub-division and Bangladesh. Once operational, this bridge will establish direct access to Chittagong Port, fostering new avenues for business and trade, he stated.
Saha emphasised that Tripura’s connectivity through Chittagong Port and the Bay of Bengal would extend beyond Southeast Asian nations, benefiting the entire northeastern region.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a virtual event, initiated the foundation laying for the redevelopment of 554 railway stations and unveiled various projects nationwide.
Additionally, Saha underscored the significance of the Indo-Bangla railway project, linking Bangladesh’s Gangasagar station with Agartala railway station. Successful trial runs between the two stations have been conducted, promising further benefits for the state’s populace.
Union Minister of State for Social Justice and Social Empowerment, Pratima Bhoumik, commended the Modi government’s efforts in enhancing connectivity. Bhoumik highlighted the transformative potential of the Indo-Bangla rail link, predicting a drastic reduction in travel time from Agartala to Kolkata via Bangladesh, from 32 hours to just 10 hours. This development is anticipated to invigorate trade, business, and investment in the northeastern region.
