In a significant step towards enhancing regional connectivity and fostering cross-border relations, the long-awaited international flight service between Agartala and Chittagong is on the brink of realization. Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha presided over a high-level meeting, joined by Transport Minister Sushanta Chowdhury, to deliberate upon crucial matters pertaining to the imminent launch of the international flight service on the proposed route.
During the meeting, Chief Minister Dr. Saha announced that decisive strides have been taken to designate the Maharaja Bir Bikram airport in Agartala as an international airport. This designation marks a pivotal milestone in the journey towards expanding global air travel options for the region’s residents.
Responding to a request from the Ministry of Home Affairs, Chief Minister Dr. Saha instructed the Director General of Police to spearhead the assignment of 17 police personnel dedicated to immigration duties at the airport. He further urged both the Transport and Police departments to collaborate in accordance with directives from the Ministry of Civil Aviation and the Ministry of Home Affairs, thereby ensuring seamless operations of the impending international flight service.
Highlighting the extensive groundwork carried out by the Transport department, Chief Secretary J.K. Sinha expressed optimism regarding the Agartala airport’s international accreditation and the subsequent initiation of the anticipated flight service. He revealed that a formal proposal has already been submitted to the Ministry of Civil Aviation, underscoring the region’s readiness to embrace international air travel.
Of note, the establishment of an immigration check post at the MBB airport is currently under evaluation by the Ministry of Home Affairs, a development that promises to expedite border-crossing procedures and facilitate hassle-free travel.
The meeting also saw the presence of prominent officials including Police Chief Amitabh Ranjan, Secretary of the Transport department Uttam Kumar Chakma, Secretary Saradindu Chowdhury, and Transport Commissioner Subrata Chowdhury. Their collective efforts underscore the commitment to realizing the Agartala-Chittagong international flight service, a landmark initiative poised to strengthen both regional connectivity and bilateral relations.
