Tripura–Bangladesh bus service resumes after two years; minister Sushanta Chowdhury welcomes passengers

Nearly two years after being suspended due to political unrest in Bangladesh, the Tripura-Bangladesh cross-border bus service resumed on Tuesday, marking a significant step in restoring connectivity between the two neighbours.

The bus, carrying nine passengers who travelled from Kolkata via Dhaka to Tripura, entered Indian territory through the Akhaura Check Post in Agartala, where it was warmly received by Tripura Transport Minister Sushanta Chowdhury.

Addressing the gathering, Chowdhury described the resumption as a moment of shared joy for both nations. He said the service, which had been operational until it was halted due to unrest in Bangladesh, has now restarted following the formation of the new government there.

“After a long gap, the India–Bangladesh bus service has resumed. Due to instability in Bangladesh, operations were suspended. Today, with the new government in place, the bus has successfully entered Tripura via Dhaka. We welcome this step with renewed hope,” he said.

The Minister highlighted the deep historical and cultural ties between Tripura and Bangladesh, stating that developments across the border directly impact the state. He congratulated the new Bangladeshi government and expressed optimism that bilateral relations would be further strengthened.

He also stated that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had extended congratulations to Bangladesh Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, while External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar remains in close coordination with Bangladeshi authorities to ensure continued cooperation.

With the restoration of bus and visa services, the Tripura government expressed confidence that India–Bangladesh relations will gain fresh momentum, particularly in trade, business, cultural exchange, and people-to-people connectivity.

The revival of the bus service is seen as a key development in reinforcing the longstanding friendship and partnership between the two neighbouring countries.