The Maitri Setu and the Agartala-Akhaura Railway Link in Tripura, significant for enhancing connectivity and economic prospects for the region, will soon be operationalised, stated Chief Minister Prof Dr Manik Saha.
The Maitri Setu, constructed over the Feni River at Sabroom in the South District of Tripura, will provide the State with direct access to the Chittagong port in Bangladesh. “With this inauguration, Tripura is set to become the ‘Gateway of North East’ with access to Chittagong Port of Bangladesh, which is just 80 km from Sabroom,” noted CM Manik.
Highlighting the government’s efforts, the CM mentioned, “Election is almost over, and a new government will be formed. Under the leadership of PM Modi, who has always emphasised on the Act East Policy and provided us with the HIRA Model, the Maitri Setu will naturally be operational soon. The trial in Agartala-Akhaura railway link has already been completed, and it will also start soon. Many investors are coming, and yesterday I also held a meeting. The future of Tripura is bright. After the rail connectivity is established, we will be able to reach Kolkata in a short period.”
The Agartala-Akhaura railway project is the first of its kind between the North Eastern States and Bangladesh, marking a significant milestone in regional connectivity. This project, crucial for national importance, involves a 5.46 km stretch in Bharat and a 6.78 km stretch in Bangladesh, with a total project cost of Rs 972.52 crore.
Implemented by the Railways Ministry through the Indian Railway Construction Company Limited or IRCON and funded by the Development of North Eastern Region or DoNER Ministry, the Indian portion of the project complements the Bangladesh portion, which is managed by Bangladesh Railways and funded by Bharat’s External Affairs Ministry. This link aims to enhance connectivity between the two countries and boost bilateral trade.
