By Tripura24.in Reporter
Agartala: In a major boost to international transit and people-to-people ties, the much-awaited Agartala-Kolkata via Dhaka bus service officially re-entered Tripura through the Akhaura Check Post this Tuesday. The service, which had been suspended for several months due to regional instability, resumed today amidst a warm ceremonial welcome at the Indo-Bangla border.
To mark the significant occasion, State Transport Minister Shri Sushanta Chowdhury was present at the border to personally welcome the passengers arriving from the neighboring country.
A Warm Welcome at the Border
Minister Sushanta Chowdhury greeted the passengers with traditional hospitality as the bus crossed the zero point. He was accompanied by:
- Shri Samar Roy, Acting Chairman of TRTC.
- Shri Hemanta Debbarma, Managing Director (MD) of TRTC.
- Senior officials of the Transport Department and BSF.
Speaking to the media, Minister Chowdhury expressed his satisfaction, noting that the resumption of this route would drastically reduce travel time between Agartala and Kolkata while fostering stronger economic bonds.
Historical Context and Suspension
The “Maitri” and “Shyamali” bus services between Agartala and Kolkata via Dhaka first began in 2001, becoming a lifeline for travelers. However, the service faced a major setback:
- September 2024: The service was suspended indefinitely due to political unrest and volatile conditions in Bangladesh.
- Safety Concerns: The decision was taken by both authorities to ensure the safety of Indian and Bangladeshi passengers amidst the then-unstable environment.
New Political Landscape: Visa Simplification
The restoration of the service follows the formation of a stable government in Bangladesh under the leadership of Tariq Rahman. With the return of stability, both India and Bangladesh have moved toward Visa Simplification, making it easier for citizens of both nations to travel.
The reopening of this corridor is expected to provide immense relief to:
- Medical Tourists: Patients from Tripura traveling to Kolkata or Dhaka for treatment.
- Traders: Enhancing small-scale cross-border trade.
- Tourists: Reinvigorating the tourism circuit between the two neighboring nations.
A Sigh of Relief for Passengers
Travelers who arrived today shared their excitement, noting that the bus route is far more affordable and culturally enriching than air travel. With the “via Dhaka” route now active, the distance between the two Indian cities is cut by nearly 1,000 km compared to the chicken’s neck corridor.
