Disruptions in Bangladesh Affect Access to Chittagong Port: Minister from Tripura
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Agartala, Dec 7 (NationPress) The continuing turmoil in Bangladesh has significantly impacted the arrangements for international flights and has delayed access to the Chittagong seaport, which plays a vital role in connectivity and trade with the northeastern states, according to a Tripura minister speaking on Saturday.
Tripura Transport and Tourism Minister Sushanta Chowdhury, during a regional seminar titled “Infrastructure in North East India - Challenges and Way Ahead”, mentioned that the Bangladesh government had previously consented to allow the northeastern states of India to utilize the Chittagong international seaport.
The minister noted that the Bangladesh government had also agreed to facilitate international flights between Agartala and the neighboring country, adding that the operationalization of the ‘Maitri Setu’ over the Feni River has also faced delays.
The ‘Maitri Setu’, constructed at the cost of India, links Sabroom in southern Tripura with the Chittagong seaport in Bangladesh via Ramgarh.
The Chittagong seaport is situated merely 72 km from Sabroom.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his former Bangladesh counterpart Sheikh Hasina virtually inaugurated the Maitri Setu on March 9, 2021.
The bridge, measuring 1.888 km in length and comprising two lanes, was constructed by India at an expense of approximately Rs 129 crore.
Expressing hope, the minister anticipated a quick return to normalcy in Bangladesh to restore these essential connections.
Chowdhury emphasized the commitment of the current central government to the development of the northeast, a region that has lagged behind since Independence.
He referenced the allocation of Rs 1.34 lakh crore by the Union Finance Minister for infrastructure and communication in the region, alongside the ongoing construction of over 4,000 km of national highways.
In Tripura alone, projects valued at Rs 4,000 crore are currently in progress, as stated by him.
The minister attributed this rapid advancement to the “double engine government”, highlighting projects worth Rs 500 crore aimed at enhancing tourism infrastructure, with financial support from both central and external agencies.
He asserted that these initiatives will generate substantial employment and livelihood opportunities in Tripura.
Chowdhury pointed out the noticeable changes in infrastructure, connectivity, healthcare, and education under the current central and state governments, commending the contributions of engineers in nation-building.
The seminar gathered experts and stakeholders to deliberate on the challenges and opportunities in the infrastructure development of Northeast India, aiming to establish a roadmap for sustainable growth in the region.
This seminar was organized by the Indian Buildings Congress, Tripura Chapter, in collaboration with PWD Urban Development, PWD Rural Development, and Agartala Municipal Corporation.
