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Agartala, Tripura's capital, has now been connected with Bangladesh by rail. This new railway route marks a significant step in enhancing trade and connectivity between India and its neighbor, Bangladesh. The inaugural goods train journey between Nischintpur station in Agartala and Akhaura station in Bangladesh took place on March 30, showcasing a leap forward in bilateral relations.
The Indian Government had declared Nischintpur as a Land Custom Station (LCS) last year, making it one of the eight stations to hold this status. This declaration is part of a broader effort to streamline and boost cross-border trade. Notably, the Agartala LCS has been elevated to an integrated check post, managed by the Land Port Authority of India (LPAI).
Tripura's Tourism and Transport Minister, Sushant Choudhary, celebrated this development on social media. He highlighted the commencement of the Agartala-Akhaura rail link as a significant achievement. Choudhary also extended his gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnav for their support in this initiative.
The eight stations designated as LCS are:
- Agartala (Nishchintpur)
- Srimantpur
- Muhurighat
- Khowaighat
- Dhalaighat
- Manughat
- Old Raghnabazar
- Sabrum
Among these, Dhalaighat is utilized for immigration purposes. Sabrum is yet to start train operations, though a trial run between Nishchintpur and Akhaura had already taken place last year. Following the success of this trial, the operation of goods trains between these stations has now begun.
The Railway Ministry had allocated Rs 153.84 crore to this rail link project until the previous year. The total estimated cost for the completion of this project is around Rs 826 crore. This rail link is expected to facilitate better trade routes and strengthen the economic ties between India and Bangladesh, offering both nations a new avenue for growth and cooperation.
The initiation of this railway connection is a testament to the ongoing efforts to improve infrastructure and connectivity in the region. It not only promises to enhance trade but also paves the way for a stronger relationship between the two neighboring countries. With the operational start of the goods train, Agartala steps into a new era of economic development and international cooperation.
