TRIPURA: In a recent address, Tripura Chief Minister Prof. Dr. Manik Saha underscored the immense significance of the Agartala-Akhaura Railway Link Project and its potential to foster stronger ties between India and Bangladesh. This ambitious infrastructure project not only promises to enhance connectivity but also stands to transform Tripura into a pivotal tourism and transport gateway for the region. One of the project's remarkable features is the drastic reduction in travel distance between Agartala and Kolkata, which will shrink from 1600 kilometers to a mere 500 kilometers by rail.
Dr. Saha also commended Prime Minister Narendra Modi's HIRA Model (Highways, I-ways, Railways, and Airways) for its role in boosting infrastructure development in the country. He particularly appreciated the foundation stone laying ceremony for the redevelopment of 508 railway stations nationwide, including 91 in the Northeast and three in Tripura.
Furthermore, the Chief Minister revealed that under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme, three railway stations in Tripura - Dharmanagar, Kumarghat, and Kailashahar - are set to undergo a comprehensive redevelopment, with an estimated cost of Rs. 96.60 crore. Plans are also in motion to upgrade the Agartala Railway station to international standards, with an allocation of Rs. 245 crore, enhancing the travel experience for passengers.
Dr. Saha emphasized the remarkable progress in connectivity that Tripura has witnessed since 2014, when Prime Minister Modi initiated efforts to bolster the connectivity of the Northeastern region with the rest of India. Today, Tripura boasts connectivity with 19 trains, including 13 express trains, 5 DEMU trains, and one local train, significantly improving accessibility and transportation options for the people.
Providing essential details about the Agartala-Akhaura railway link, Dr. Saha explained that the project spans 12.24 kilometers, with 5.46 kilometers in Tripura and 6.76 kilometers in Bangladesh. The project received a total allocation of Rs. 972 crore, with Rs. 580 crore designated for the Indian segment and Rs. 392 crore for the Bangladeshi section. Indian Railways Construction Company (IRCON) is overseeing the Indian side, while TEXAMACO is responsible for the Bangladesh portion.
In closing, Dr. Saha expressed his confidence that the successful implementation of the Agartala-Akhaura Railway Link Project will further solidify the bilateral ties between India and Bangladesh, opening new avenues for cooperation and regional development.
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