Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha has announced that the State is set to become a pivotal gateway not only to Southeast Asian nations but also to numerous other countries through the utilisation of the Chittagong Port in Bangladesh.
CM Saha highlighted the significant progress made towards this goal, citing Dhaka’s approval for Bharat to access the Chittagong Port via South Tripura’s Sabroom sub-division and the imminent inauguration of the Maitri Setu, facilitating cross-border movement between the two sides.
“The Maitri Setu, constructed over the Feni River, has already been inaugurated, and cross-border movement is set to commence shortly. Once operational, the bridge will provide direct access to the Chittagong Port in Bangladesh, unlocking new avenues for trade and commerce,” the CM remarked during the foundation stone laying ceremony for the Agartala railway station redevelopment.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, through virtual means, initiated the foundation laying for the redevelopment of 554 stations and inaugurated various projects nationwide.
CM Saha insisted Tripura’s strategic location would not only enhance connectivity with Southeast Asian nations but also facilitate access to numerous countries through the Chittagong Port and the Bay of Bengal, benefiting the entire Northeast region.
He further highlighted the Indo-Bangla railway project, which links Bangladesh’s Gangasagar station with Agartala railway station. “Successful trial runs between Gangasagar and Agartala have been conducted, promising significant benefits for the people of the State,” noted Dr Saha.
Union Minister Pratima Bhoumik praised the Modi Government’s achievements in enhancing connectivity, particularly highlighting the inclusion of three railway stations – Agartala, Kumarghat, and Udaipur – in the Amrit Bharat station scheme. She underscored the transformative potential of the Indo-Bangla rail link, which promises to drastically reduce travel time and spur economic development in the region.
