The cross-border bus service connecting Agartala, Dhaka, and Kolkata is poised to restart regular operations after a prolonged suspension, officials revealed. Trial runs for the Agartala-Dhaka-Kolkata route began recently, with the schedule for full-fledged services expected to be announced on February 28 following trial assessments. The bus services between Agartala-Dhaka-Kolkata and Agartala-Dhaka were initially halted due to the Covid-19 pandemic, resumed briefly in June 2022, but were suspended again after an unfortunate incident in Bangladesh.
Authorities have decided to revive the bus services amidst improved law-and-order conditions in Bangladesh and the installation of a new government. These routes are crucial for connectivity, facilitating smoother travel between Tripura and eastern India via Bangladesh. The resumption of services is anticipated to greatly benefit passengers once operations normalize. The Bangladesh Assistant High Commission in Agartala has started issuing visas in specific cases, signaling a positive development in cross-border travel facilitation.
Security measures around the Bangladesh Assistant High Commission in Agartala have been reinforced since last year to ensure the safety of officials and the diplomatic mission. With Tripura sharing a significant border with Bangladesh and witnessing frequent cross-border movements, the resumption of bus services is a significant step towards enhancing regional connectivity. The Agartala-Akhaura Integrated Check Post (ICP) serves as a vital trading point between India and Bangladesh, offering a faster and more efficient travel route from India’s Northeastern region to the rest of the country via Bangladesh.
