Tripura 04 Feb, 2024 (Yesterday News): In a significant development for Tripura’s rail connectivity, a modern addition to rail services was inaugurated under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi. On Saturday, February 3, 2024, the Agartala railway station witnessed the launch of the Agartala-Deoghar Express, equipped with state-of-the-art LHB (Linke Hofmann Busch) coaches.
The Agartala-Deoghar Express, train numbers 15626/15625, currently utilizes coaches from the old Integral Coach Factory (ICF) between Agartala and Deoghar. However, these have been transformed into passenger-friendly modern LHB coaches. The introduction of these hybrid LHB coaches by Indian Railways aims to enhance passenger comfort and safety.
The LHB coaches feature amenities such as fire-resistant materials and improved passenger services compared to the previous ICF coaches. With the inclusion of air-conditioned three-tier coaches and an increased seating capacity in general class, the Agartala-Deoghar Express is set to provide a more comfortable and secure travel experience.
This modernization initiative aligns with the Indian Railways’ commitment to upgrading services, as seen in the integration of the ‘Linke Hofmann Busch’ (LHB) coaches. The Agartala-Deoghar Express, covering a distance of 1472 kilometers, embarks on its journey every Saturday evening at 7 PM from Agartala, reaching Deoghar the following day. The route includes stops at key junctions such as Teliamura, Ambasa, Dharmanagar, and Kamakhya, among others.
This endeavor is part of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ‘Look East’ policy, fostering improved connectivity and development in the northeastern states. The recent advancements in railway, road, and air services reflect the transformative changes brought about in the region. Currently boasting 13 connecting trains and five local trains within the state, the Agartala-Akhaura rail link project is nearing completion, further solidifying connectivity with neighboring countries.
In a symbolic display of regional cooperation, a trial run of a goods train was conducted virtually from Bangladesh’s Chittagong to India’s Nischintapur station on January 11, 2024. The successful completion of the trial run from Nischintapur to Agartala on January 26, 2024, marks a significant step towards operationalizing the passenger train services between the two countries.
Anticipating a swift initiation of cross-border passenger train services, the newfound connectivity is poised to strengthen ties between India and Bangladesh, fostering economic and cultural exchanges. As Tripura continues to witness unprecedented development under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the future holds the promise of seamless connectivity and progress for the region.
