CM Dr. Manik Saha welcomes the restart of the Agartala-Dhaka-Kolkata bus service, calling India-Bangladesh ties inseparable. Trial runs begin as visa services reopen, promising stronger connectivity, regional cooperation, and renewed cross-border travel between Tripura and Bangladesh.
The Chief Minister of Tripura, Manik Saha, has warmly welcomed the revival of the international bus service linking Agartala, Dhaka, and Kolkata, describing the relationship between India and Bangladesh as “inseparable” and built upon a deeply rooted symbiotic bond.
Addressing the development, Dr. Saha expressed optimism that bilateral relations would grow even stronger under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the newly formed government in Bangladesh. He noted that a renewed sense of positivity is being observed across Bangladesh, a sentiment that is also resonating strongly among the people of Tripura.
“This revival reflects not only improved diplomatic engagement but also the emotional and cultural ties shared by our people,” Dr. Saha said. He added that enhanced connectivity between the neighboring nations would further strengthen economic cooperation, tourism, trade, and people-to-people interaction.
The Agartala-Dhaka-Kolkata bus service had been suspended for over a year due to visa restrictions and operational challenges. The disruption left students, business travelers, medical patients, and tourists facing significant inconvenience. However, with visa offices reopening and diplomatic processes easing, authorities have initiated trial runs in Agartala to ensure operational readiness.
Transport operators confirmed that buses have already returned to the route and that logistical arrangements, including staffing and ticketing systems, are in place. Official ticket counters are scheduled to reopen on February 28, the same day regular passenger services are expected to resume.
Passenger guide Sipon Sarkar explained that previous visa limitations were the primary cause of the suspension. “Many passengers could not secure travel permits, which led to a sharp decline in operations,” he said. With visa services gradually normalizing, officials anticipate a surge in demand, particularly from students pursuing education abroad, tourists exploring cross-border destinations, and families reconnecting after prolonged separation.
Bus driver Fayeg Ahmood shared that current trial trips are being conducted without passengers to assess route efficiency and safety standards. “Everything is being tested thoroughly to ensure smooth operations from the first day of full service,” he stated, expressing confidence that seats would fill quickly once regular services begin.
Maitree Bus Operator Mahadev Das and his team have arrived in Agartala to oversee the final phase of preparations. With a dedicated staff strength of 25 personnel, the operational team is working to guarantee seamless coordination between border authorities, ticketing systems, and passenger management services.
The revival of the bus route is widely seen as a strategic boost for regional connectivity in eastern India and Bangladesh. Beyond convenience, it symbolizes renewed diplomatic warmth and shared economic aspirations. The Agartala-Dhaka-Kolkata corridor has historically played a crucial role in facilitating trade, cultural exchange, and tourism between the two nations.
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Observers believe that the restored service will significantly benefit Tripura’s economy by promoting cross-border commerce and attracting more visitors to the region. Improved mobility is also expected to strengthen healthcare access, educational exchange, and family reunions across borders.
As February 28 approaches, anticipation is building among residents and regular travelers. For many, the bus service represents more than transportation; it stands as a testament to enduring friendship and cooperation between India and Bangladesh.
