In a major boost to cross-border connectivity, the long-suspended Maitri bus service linking Agartala and Kolkata via Dhaka will resume operations from February 24. The move signals renewed warmth in India–Bangladesh relations and offers much-needed relief to passengers who rely on the road route between Tripura and West Bengal.
The service was halted amid political instability in Bangladesh following a mass uprising and the resignation of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on August 5, 2024. An interim administration governed the country during the transitional period, leading to uncertainty and the suspension of several cross-border services, including the popular Maitri bus.
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Political Stability Paves the Way for Revival
The revival comes after the formation of a stable and permanent democratic government in Bangladesh led by the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) under Prime Minister Tarique Rahman. The restoration of political stability has helped rebuild confidence and strengthen diplomatic engagement with India.
Tripura, which shares a long and historically close relationship with Bangladesh, stands to benefit significantly from the resumption of the bus service. Cross-border exchanges, especially passenger transport, play a crucial role in maintaining people-to-people ties, trade, and cultural connections between the two nations.
TRTC Confirms Successful Trial Run
Confirming the development, Samar Roy, Vice Chairman of the Tripura Road Transport Corporation (TRTC), said authorities successfully conducted a trial run and reviewed all operational preparations.
“After a long time, the Maitri bus service from Agartala to Kolkata via Dhaka is being resumed. A successful trial run was conducted, and all necessary arrangements are in place. The service will restart from February 24,” Roy stated.
He added that buses from Agartala will operate on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays. Meanwhile, services from Kolkata to Agartala will run on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays.
The schedule aims to ensure regular and reliable connectivity for passengers traveling between the two cities.
A Vital Link for Tripura
For residents of Agartala, the bus route through Dhaka offers a shorter and often more convenient alternative to the longer domestic route through India’s Siliguri corridor. The road journey via Bangladesh significantly reduces travel time and distance between Tripura and Kolkata.
Over the years, the Maitri bus service has emerged as more than just a transport facility. It symbolizes friendship and cooperation between India and Bangladesh. Families, traders, students, and medical travelers have widely used the service to maintain close ties across the border.
The suspension had disrupted travel plans and caused inconvenience for many passengers who depend on this affordable and direct road link.
Strengthening India–Bangladesh Relations
The resumption of the Maitri bus service reflects improving bilateral ties between India and Bangladesh at both diplomatic and grassroots levels. Political stability in Dhaka has opened the door for restoring suspended connectivity projects and rebuilding mutual trust.
For Tripura in particular, improved connectivity with Bangladesh enhances regional integration and strengthens economic prospects. The development also reinforces India’s Act East policy by promoting smoother transport links in the northeastern region.
Officials believe the revival of the service will boost tourism, trade, and cultural exchange while deepening people-to-people contact between the two neighboring countries.
As the buses prepare to roll again from February 24, passengers on both sides of the border look forward to a renewed chapter of cooperation and connectivity, symbolizing the enduring friendship between India and Bangladesh.
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