In a significant development for railway connectivity, Union Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment, Pratima Bhowmik, flagged off a new fully air-conditioned train from Agartala to Kolkata on Wednesday (May 17).
The launch of the train marks a notable milestone in improving transportation links for the Northeast region.
The train, 02502 (Agartala – Kolkata) special, will operate on a weekly basis, departing from Agartala every Wednesday for eight trips between May 17 and July 5, 2023. Departure time is set for 07:30 hours, with an estimated arrival in Kolkata at 15:00 hours the following day. For the return journey, train number 02501 (Kolkata – Agartala) special will depart from Kolkata every Sunday for eight trips from May 21 to July 9, 2023, leaving at 21:40 hours and reaching Agartala at 05:15 hours on Tuesday.
Speaking to reporters at the launch event, the Minister expressed her admiration for Prime Minister Narendra Modi and commended the progress achieved across various sectors under the leadership of the double-engine government. She emphasized the crucial role of Indian Railways as the nation’s lifeline and highlighted the remarkable growth in railway connectivity in Tripura and the entire Northeast region under the capable leadership of Prime Minister Modi and his Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government.
The newly introduced train boasts 11 fully air-conditioned coaches and will initially operate on a weekly schedule from Agartala to Kolkata. However, considering the potential demand, the train’s capacity can be extended to 22 coaches, ensuring convenient and comfortable travel for passengers.
“This development is particularly significant for the people of Tripura, as Kolkata, a neighboring city, holds immense importance with many individuals of the State visiting Kolkata for various reasons. The introduction of this new train service will undoubtedly facilitate easier and more affordable travel for them”, Bhowmik said.
She expressed her gratitude to the Prime Minister for this long-awaited gift to the state of Tripura and applauded Prime Minister Modi’s unwavering dedication to the development of the Northeast region since assuming office on May 16, 2014. She also extended her appreciation to Minister of Railways Ashwini Vaishnaw for spearheading the launch of this state-of-the-art train, equipped with modern facilities that prioritize the comfort and convenience of passengers.
The introduction of this new train service symbolizes a significant milestone in enhancing connectivity and fostering development in the region. It demonstrates the government’s continuous efforts to improve infrastructure and transportation systems, ensuring a brighter future for the people of Agartala and Kolkata.