Agartala-Akhaura Railway Link Project to strengthen India-Bangladesh relations
Tripura: In a recent address, Tripura Chief Minister Prof. Dr. Manik Saha underlined the immense importance of the Agartala-Akhaura Railway Link Project and its potential to promote stronger relations between India and Bangladesh. This ambitious infrastructure project promises to not only enhance connectivity but also transform Tripura into an important tourism and transportation gateway for the region. One of the notable features of the project is the drastic reduction in travel distance between Agartala and Kolkata from 1600 kilometers to just 500 kilometers by rail.
Dr Saha also lauded Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s HIRA model (Highways, I-ways, Railways and Airways) for its role in promoting infrastructure development in the country. He particularly appreciated the foundation stone laying ceremony for redevelopment of 508 railway stations across the country, including 91 in the North-East and three in Tripura.
Further, the Chief Minister revealed that under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme, three railway stations in Tripura – Dharmanagar, Kumarghat and Kailashahar – will be comprehensively redeveloped at an estimated cost of Rs. 96.60 crores. Plans to upgrade Agartala Railway Station to international standards are also in motion, with an allocation of Rs. ₹245 crore, improving the travel experience for passengers.
Dr. Saha emphasized the remarkable progress in connectivity that Tripura has seen since 2014, when Prime Minister Modi initiated efforts to strengthen the connectivity of the North-Eastern region with the rest of India. Today, Tripura boasts of connectivity with 19 trains including 13 express trains, 5 DEMU trains and one local train, which has significantly improved the accessibility and transportation options for the people.
Providing necessary information about the Agartala-Akhaura railway link, Dr. Saha informed that the project extends for 12.24 km, of which 5.46 km lies in Tripura and 6.76 km in Bangladesh. The total project cost is Rs. Received allocation. With Rs 972 crore. Rs 580 crore earmarked for the Indian segment. ₹392 crore for the Bangladeshi segment. The Indian Railway Construction Company (IRCON) is handling the Indian portion, while Texmaco is responsible for the Bangladesh portion.
In concluding, Dr. Saha expressed confidence that the successful implementation of the Agartala-Akhaura Railway Link Project will further strengthen bilateral relations between India and Bangladesh, opening up new avenues of cooperation and regional development.
