BY TC News Desk
Agartala, 2nd August 2025: Bangladesh High Commissioner to India, Riaz Hamidullah is currently on a three-day visit to Tripura to boost cross-border ties and review ongoing connectivity projects.
The High Commissioner began his visit yesterday by touring the Integrated Check Post (ICP) in Agartala and held detailed discussions with officials from the Land Ports Authority of India.
The second day of his visit, Hamidullah conducted a field inspection of the Agartala-Akhaura Rail Link Project, a key initiative aimed at enhancing India-Bangladesh connectivity. The project once completed is expected to significantly facilitate trade and the movement of people across the border.
“The Agartala-Akhaura rail link is not just a project; it is a symbol of our deepening ties. This railway will open up new commercial opportunities for the entire Northeast region,” the High Commissioner told reporters during the visit.
A two-hour-long meeting was held with railway and port authorities to address the challenges hindering seamless trade and travel across the border. “We discussed solutions to the remaining bottlenecks and agreed to fast-track the progress,” he added.
Hamidullah also visited Nischintapur Railway Station in the suburbs of the capital city and held discussions with railway officials on the potential for future expansion. “This link has the potential to be a high-revenue, short-distance commercial corridor,” he noted.
The governments of India and Bangladesh had initially aimed to inaugurate the rail link before August 08, 2024. However, political developments in Bangladesh including unrest over the “Kota Andolon” issue and the departure of then Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina led to delays.
“Thankfully, relations are beginning to stabilize with the interim government in place and both nations are eager to resume collaborative efforts,” Hamidullah said.
He also mentioned that discussions are underway regarding the operationalization of the India-Bangladesh Friendship Bridge. “We are keen to build upon existing infrastructure and friendship. I believe we are moving in the right direction,” he told the media personnel here.
