Biplab Thanks PM, Railway Minister For New Train Service on Agartala-Guwahati Route
In a major boost to Tripura’s rail infrastructure and regional connectivity, the Union Ministry of Railways has approved a new express train service connecting Agartala with Guwahati (Narangi). The move comes in response to a formal proposal submitted by West Tripura MP and former Chief Minister Biplab Kumar Deb, who has expressed his deep gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw for swiftly acting on the request.
“I sincerely thank Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Ji and Union Railway Minister Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw Ji for approving a new rail service on the Agartala-Guwahati route. This decision reflects the Centre’s commitment to fulfilling the demands of the people of Tripura and enhancing passenger comfort,” said Biplab Deb in an official press statement issued on Saturday.
The new rail service, which will connect Agartala to Narangi station in Guwahati, is expected to play a crucial role in strengthening inter-state mobility, promoting economic exchange, and easing the daily travel burdens of hundreds of passengers between Tripura and Assam. The initiative has been welcomed by rail users and local citizens alike as a long-overdue and much-needed measure.
I express my sincere gratitude to Hon’ble PM Shri @NarendraModi Ji and Union Railway Minister Shri @AshwiniVaishnaw Ji for approving a lal new rail service on the Agartala-Guwahati route, respecting the demands of the people of Tripura and prioritizing passenger comfort. pic.twitter.com/u9MWtUdRni
— Biplab Kumar Deb (@BjpBiplab) May 25, 2025
The Push for Enhanced Rail Connectivity
The announcement follows a detailed meeting held on April 22 between MP Biplab Deb and Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw in New Delhi. During the meeting, Deb emphasized the urgent need to improve Tripura’s rail infrastructure, with particular focus on connecting Agartala with Guwahati—one of the busiest and most vital rail corridors in the Northeast.
Deb urged the minister to introduce a new express train that prioritizes affordability, frequency, and comfort for the general public. He also highlighted the increasing demand from students, traders, professionals, and patients who regularly travel between Tripura and Assam, often facing difficulties due to limited train options.
A month later, Deb received an official letter from the Railway Minister confirming the approval of his proposal. Responding to the communication, Deb conveyed his appreciation to Minister Vaishnaw through a letter, thanking him for the timely action and commitment to the development of Tripura.
Background: Rail Development in Tripura
Tripura has witnessed significant railway development over the past decade. Agartala, once disconnected from the rest of India’s railway grid, was brought onto the broad-gauge map in 2016, and since then, connectivity has steadily improved. Several express and passenger trains—such as the Tripura Sundari Express and the Rajdhani Express—were introduced during Deb’s tenure as Chief Minister, opening new avenues for mobility and commerce.
Despite these advances, the demand for more frequent and direct services, especially between Agartala and Guwahati, has remained high. Guwahati, being the gateway to the Northeast and a major urban and commercial center, serves as a crucial link for people traveling for education, healthcare, and trade.
The proposed new train service is expected to operate daily or at least several times a week, although detailed scheduling and operational plans are yet to be released by the Ministry of Railways.
Holistic Development Approach
According to a press release from the MP’s office in Agartala, Deb’s meeting with the Railway Minister also covered a broader spectrum of proposals aimed at transforming Tripura’s rail infrastructure. These included:
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Introduction of new rail lines branching out from Agartala.
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Upgradation of key stations along the Agartala–Sabroom and Agartala–Dharmanagar lines.
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Doubling of railway tracks to accommodate higher traffic volumes.
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Improved onboard facilities and modern signaling systems.
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Feasibility studies for electrification of key routes.
“All these proposals are currently under consideration by the Railway Ministry. The central government is showing encouraging intent to support infrastructure upgrades in Tripura and across the Northeast,” the press note added.
Political and Public Response
Biplab Deb’s efforts have drawn positive reactions from both political observers and the general public. His longstanding advocacy for improved connectivity in the region has been credited as instrumental in pushing the central government to act promptly. Local traders’ associations and student groups have also welcomed the news, stating that improved rail options will reduce travel time, bring down costs, and facilitate smoother access to services and institutions in Assam and beyond.
This development aligns with the Central Government’s Act East Policy, which aims to improve connectivity and integration of India’s northeastern states with Southeast Asia, starting with stronger infrastructure links within the region itself.
With the new train service on the horizon, Tripura is poised to take another step forward in its journey toward greater connectivity, growth, and inclusion. Further details, including the train’s schedule, route stops, and launch date, are expected to be announced in the coming weeks.
|Also Read : Biplab Deb Accuses Former Left Front Govt of Misleading Tripura |
|Also Read : Railway Ministry approves new Agartala-Guwahati train, says MP Biplab Kumar Deb |
