Tripura Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha has urged the Central government to introduce a Vande Bharat Express train service between Agartala, the state capital, and Guwahati, the gateway to the Northeast. This proposal, if implemented, is expected to significantly improve travel efficiency, reduce travel time, and bolster regional integration.
Dr. Saha placed this request during his recent visit to New Delhi, where he met with Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw. Highlighting the importance of improved railway infrastructure, the Tripura CM emphasized that better rail connectivity is crucial for fostering economic growth, facilitating trade, and promoting tourism in the Northeast.
Currently, the train journey from Agartala to Guwahati takes approximately 14 to 16 hours. Dr. Saha argued that a semi-high-speed Vande Bharat Express could drastically cut this travel time, making it more convenient for passengers and businesses alike. He stated that reducing travel duration would not only improve passenger comfort but also strengthen the commercial link between Tripura and Assam.
The introduction of the Vande Bharat Express, known for its modern amenities, faster speed, and superior passenger experience, would revolutionize rail travel in the region. The train is designed to run at speeds of up to 160 km/h, significantly reducing travel time compared to conventional trains. With air-conditioned coaches, comfortable seating, and advanced safety features, the Vande Bharat Express has already become a preferred choice for passengers on several routes across India.
Tripura, being a landlocked state, heavily relies on its connectivity with Assam for trade and transportation. The existing transportation infrastructure often poses challenges, including long travel durations and occasional disruptions due to adverse weather conditions. By introducing a faster and more reliable train service, Dr. Saha believes that the Vande Bharat Express could address these challenges and unlock new economic opportunities for Tripura and the broader northeastern region.
Furthermore, the Chief Minister highlighted the potential impact on tourism. Tripura is home to several cultural and natural attractions, including the iconic Ujjayanta Palace, Neermahal, and the lush green landscapes of Jampui Hills. Improved connectivity with Guwahati, which serves as a hub for tourists traveling to the Northeast, could attract more visitors to Tripura. This, in turn, would benefit the local hospitality sector, artisans, and small businesses.
The demand for better rail services in the region is not new. Over the past few years, there has been a growing call from residents, businesses, and political leaders for improved connectivity to integrate the northeastern states more closely with the rest of the country. The Vande Bharat Express represents a step forward in fulfilling this long-standing demand.
Responding to Dr. Saha’s proposal, Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw assured that the request would be considered. He acknowledged the strategic importance of enhancing connectivity in the Northeast and highlighted the government’s commitment to expanding railway infrastructure under the Act East Policy. Vaishnaw also noted that several railway projects are already underway in the region to improve accessibility and reduce travel bottlenecks.
If approved, the Agartala-Guwahati Vande Bharat Express could become a landmark project for the Northeast, symbolizing the region’s growing integration with India’s broader transportation network. It would not only reduce the geographical isolation of Tripura but also reinforce the government’s vision of equitable development across all states.
As the proposal awaits formal approval, residents of Tripura and Assam remain hopeful that this modern train service will soon become a reality. The potential introduction of the Vande Bharat Express is seen as a promising step towards transforming the transportation landscape of the Northeast, fostering closer economic ties, and enhancing the quality of life for people in the region.
With growing attention from the Central government and strong advocacy from state leaders like Dr. Manik Saha, the vision of a faster, more connected Northeast is inching closer to reality. The Agartala-Guwahati Vande Bharat Express could well become a symbol of progress, bridging distances and bringing new opportunities to the heart of India’s eastern frontier.
