Bangladesh–India–Tripura bus service resumes after 18-month suspension
The Agartala–Dhaka–Kolkata route restarted at around noon yesterday, with a bus operated by the Tripura Road Transport Corporation departing for Dhaka after completing immigration formalities at the Akhaura land border
ATT Correspondent 
An international passenger bus service linking Bangladesh, India and the north-eastern Indian state of Tripura resumed operations on Tuesday after an 18-month suspension, officials said.
The Agartala–Dhaka–Kolkata route restarted at around noon, with a bus operated by the Tripura Road Transport Corporation departing for Dhaka after completing immigration formalities at the Akhaura land border. The bus left with three passengers and three staff members on board.
The cross-border service, launched in 2001 under the Agartala–Kolkata via Dhaka Maitree and Shyamoli routes, had been suspended since September 2024 due to political instability in Bangladesh and concerns over passenger safety.
Officials said the resumption follows the formation of a new government in Bangladesh led by Tarique Rahman and the subsequent easing of visa procedures between the two countries.
Tripura Transport Minister Sushanta Chowdhury was present on the Indian side of the Akhaura border to welcome passengers. He said the restoration of the service would strengthen ties between India and Bangladesh and promote connectivity, tourism and trade.
“This bus service is not just a mode of transport but a vital bridge for communication, culture and commerce between the people of the two countries,” he said.
Local political leaders in Bangladesh also welcomed the move, saying the renewed connectivity would benefit residents and enhance bilateral relations.
The service connects Agartala, the capital of Tripura, with Dhaka and Kolkata, providing an important overland link between the neighbouring countries.
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