Guwahati: The first trial container ship from Kolkata to Agartala via Chattogram port was flagged off by Union Minister Mansukh Madaviya on Thursday, July 16 via a virtual ceremony.
The waygoing has been done under the Agreement on use of Chattogram and Mongla Ports for movement of India's transit cargo through Bangladesh.
Mandaviya stated that the route will open doors to new opportunities for both countries. "It will provide the alternative and shorter route to connect the North East Region through Bangladesh", he said.
Mandivya informed that this is a historic move to utilise Chattogram and Mongla Port for movement of India's transit cargo and will be a new chapter in India-Bangladesh maritime relations.
It has been reported that the consignment of the trial movement includes two TEUs carrying TMT steel bars destined for West Tripura district and two TEUs carrying pulses destined for Karimganj, Assam. After reaching Chattogram, the consignment will move to Agartala.
"It will reduce distance and time taken in transportation of goods for India and is a win-win for both the economies."the minister added.
This new deal will create jobs, bring investments to the logistics sector, utilize more trucks and vessels from Bangladesh etc.
This decision was taken when Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina visited India in October 2019.
It is to be mentioned that in recent years, India and Bangladesh have enhanced cooperation in shipping and inland water trade. Under the Protocol on Inland Water Transit and Trade, in addition to the six existing Ports of Call, five more in each country have been added recently.
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