Is the Agartala-Dhaka-Kolkata bus service about to resume?
Synopsis
The long-awaited resumption of the Agartala-Dhaka-Kolkata bus service is on the horizon, promising to restore critical connectivity between India and Bangladesh after a lengthy suspension. With trial runs already underway and a new government in Bangladesh, the service could transform travel dynamics in the region.
Key Takeaways
Trial runs of the bus service have commenced.
Regular operations are expected to start by February 28 .
The service connects Tripura with eastern India through Bangladesh .
Security measures have been enhanced around the Bangladesh High Commission .
The route is crucial for cross-border travel and trade.
Agartala, Feb 21 (NationPress) The bus service that connects Agartala, Dhaka, and Kolkata is anticipated to recommence shortly, ending over a year of suspension, as confirmed by officials on Saturday.
The Vice-Chairman of the state-run Tripura Road Transport Corporation (TRTC), Samar Roy, announced the initiation of trial operations for the Agartala-Dhaka-Kolkata bus service on Saturday. He indicated that the timetable for regular services would be revealed on February 28 following evaluations of the trial runs.
The bus routes connecting Agartala-Dhaka-Kolkata and Agartala-Dhaka were initially halted due to the Covid-19 pandemic but were resumed in June 2022. However, a subsequent suspension occurred after an incident involving a local travel agency's bus in Bangladesh, which encountered an accident and was attacked by a mob.
Operators expressed hesitation to restart services due to escalating violence in Bangladesh during June-July of the previous year, particularly after the fall of the former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina-led Awami League government on August 5, 2024.
With a newly elected government now in place and improvements noted in the overall law-and-order situation, authorities have resolved to reinstate the cross-border bus services.
The Agartala-Dhaka-Kolkata and Agartala-Dhaka routes are crucial for connectivity, facilitating faster and smoother travel between Tripura and eastern India through Bangladesh.
Once regular operations resume, the services are expected to greatly benefit travelers.
Reports indicate that the Bangladesh Assistant High Commission (AHC) in Agartala has started issuing visas in specific cases.
Previously, the Bangladesh AHC in Agartala informed that all visa and consular services had been suspended since December 23, 2025, due to “unavoidable circumstances” and until further notice.
In the meantime, a senior official from Tripura police stated that security around the Bangladesh Assistant High Commission in Agartala has been intensified since last August.
“A substantial deployment of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) and Tripura State Rifles has been made to ensure the safety of officials and the diplomatic mission,” the official mentioned.
Tripura, sharing an 856-km-long border with Bangladesh and surrounded by the neighboring country on three sides, sees regular cross-border movement, with many individuals traveling between the two nations.
The Agartala-Akhaura (Bangladesh) Integrated Check Post (ICP) is also the second-largest trading hub between India and Bangladesh, following the Petrapole-Benapole ICP in West Bengal.
Travel from the mountainous Northeastern region of India to other parts of the country via Bangladesh is considerably faster and more efficient than the traditional narrow Siliguri corridor, often referred to as the “Chicken’s Neck” corridor.
Point of View
It is clear that the resumption of the Agartala-Dhaka-Kolkata bus service signifies a positive development in regional connectivity. This initiative is not only essential for enhancing travel for citizens but also plays a crucial role in fostering bilateral relations between India and Bangladesh. With growing optimism following political changes in Bangladesh, the revival of such services is a step towards strengthening ties and promoting mutual cooperation.
NationPress
12 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
When will the bus service resume?
The regular operations for the bus service are expected to be announced on February 28, after the completion of trial runs.
What caused the suspension of the bus service?
The service was initially suspended due to the Covid-19 pandemic and later halted following incidents of violence involving a local travel agency's bus in Bangladesh.
How long is the border between Tripura and Bangladesh?
Tripura shares an 856-km-long border with Bangladesh.
What is the importance of the Agartala-Akhaura ICP?
The Agartala-Akhaura Integrated Check Post is the second-largest trading point between India and Bangladesh, facilitating significant cross-border trade.
How is security being managed at the Bangladesh High Commission?
Security has been strengthened around the Bangladesh Assistant High Commission in Agartala, with a substantial deployment of the Central Reserve Police Force and Tripura State Rifles.
