In a significant stride towards bolstering regional connectivity, Tripura has transformed into a pivotal communication hub, facilitating local traders to embark on the international trade stage.
Experts, taking part at a seminar titled “Tripura-Land locked to land-linked” held at Prajna Bhawan, Agartala, emphasized the need for peaceful cooperation among stakeholders to maximize productivity amid the surge in economic activities.
The seminar was jointly organized by the School of Logistics, Communication, and Waterways in collaboration with the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII).
Diverse participants, including representatives from Tripura University, MBB University, ICFAI University, central and state government entities, and business conglomerates, congregated to deliberate on the region’s evolving role.
The inaugural event witnessed the esteemed presence of Chief Secretary of the State Government, JK Sinha, IAS, who inaugurated the seminar. The Assistant High Commissioner of Bangladesh in Agartala, Arif Mohammad, graced the occasion as a Special Guest.
Dr. Palin Khudongbam, Co-Chairman of CII, North East Council, in his welcome address, shed light on Tripura’s strategic geographic positioning, poised to emerge as a multi-modal connectivity hub.
Uttam Kumar Chakma, Secretary of the Department of Transport, delivered an insightful discourse on the historical evolution, current state, and future prospects of Tripura’s communication infrastructure. He highlighted that Tripura boasts the third internet gateway in the country, and the region now enjoys the operation of 10 express trains to various destinations. Notable infrastructure developments include a model rail yard at Nischintapur as part of the Agartala-Akhaura rail line project and the ongoing construction of a rail yard at Sabrum.
Chakma also shared that Udaipur, Dharmanagar, and Kumarghat railway stations have been designated as Amrit Bharat stations, offering advanced facilities. Moreover, SpiceJet’s approval for the Agartala-Chittagong route is a notable development. Efforts are also underway for the Sonamura-Daudkandi waterway, and plans for national highway development are in progress.
In his inaugural speech, JK Sinha expressed admiration for the remarkable advancements in Tripura’s communication system in recent years. He highlighted the emergence of broad gauge rail lines and the forthcoming electrified lines. Sinha asserted that the advanced communication infrastructure, coupled with proactive policies, will undoubtedly accelerate the state’s economic prospects.
He stressed the importance of not solely relying on air communication improvements but also enhancing regional communication systems to stimulate financial activity and maximize the state’s limited resources for the benefit of all.
Arif Mohammad echoed the sentiment of strengthening regional cooperation, considering the longstanding 52-year-old relationship between India and Bangladesh. He emphasized regional collaboration across political, commercial, and cultural domains. Arif Mohammad emphasized Tripura’s potential to evolve into a commercial hub based on its strategic geographical location. Furthermore, he underscored the importance of resource sharing, particularly in infrastructure development, to maintain regional peace and stability, especially regarding river issues.
Following the inaugural session, two technical sessions were conducted, focusing on “Connectivity Tripura: The Next Gateway to the North-East” and “Tripura — The Trade Corridor.” The seminar served as a platform for comprehensive discussions on the evolving role of Tripura in the regional and international context.