Agartala: Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha has formally urged Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw to introduce the Vande Bharat Express train service connecting Agartala, the state capital, with Guwahati, Assam.
The proposal seeks to provide a faster, more efficient, and comfortable travel option between the two cities, significantly enhancing regional connectivity and boosting economic, social, and cultural ties between the two states.
Saha, in a recent meeting with Minister Vaishnaw in New Delhi, emphasised the urgent need to improve and modernise railway infrastructure in the northeastern region, which has long faced challenges related to connectivity.
The chief minister called for the implementation of several railway development projects in Tripura, aimed at transforming the state’s transport system to meet the growing needs of both locals and visitors.
During the meeting at Rail Bhawan, Saha discussed a comprehensive range of initiatives with Vaishnaw, including the introduction of the high-speed Vande Bharat Express between Agartala and Guwahati.
The Vande Bharat Express, known for its state-of-the-art features, is expected to revolutionise travel in the Northeast by offering a more modern and efficient alternative to existing services.
The chief minister also advocated for the launch of other important rail services, including an inter-city train connecting Agartala and Guwahati, as well as local trains between Dharmanagar and Sabroom.
In his Facebook post following the meeting, Saha further outlined the discussions, noting that they also addressed other key railway projects in Tripura.
These include the laying of new tracks, such as the Jirania-Bodhjungnagar route, which will connect the industrial estate, and the Dharmanagar-Kailashar line.
Additionally, the proposal for a Kishan Rail service between Agartala and Guwahati was also brought up.
The introduction of the Vande Bharat Express, once implemented, is expected to vastly improve the region’s rail travel experience, offering a significant upgrade for both passengers and the local economy.
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As part of his ongoing efforts to modernise Tripura’s infrastructure, Saha also highlighted the importance of these railway developments as a means of fostering economic growth and improving access for residents of the northeastern states.
Beyond the railway discussions, he also met Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan to discuss the development of educational institutions in Tripura.
Among the topics covered was the proposal to upgrade Women’s College to a Women’s University and the Tripura Institute of Technology to a Technical University.
The chief minister also emphasised the importance of enhancing the Vidya Jyoti Schools, which are focused on elevating the standard of education in the state.
