First in NE, Agartala- Karimganj MEMU train service flagged-off

In a boost for Tripura's rail connectivity, the Agartala- Karimganj MEMU train service was flagged-off from Agartala railway station on Saturday.

Chief Minister Dr Manik Saha flagged-off the new train service in the presence of Transport minister Sushanta Chowdhury, MP Rajya sabha Rajib Bhattacharjee, MLA Mina Rani Sarkar and others.

Addressing the programme, the Chief Minister said, Tripura for the first time saw arrival of a train in 1964. The train had arrived at Dharmanagar from Kalkalighat of Assam. Later, the service was extended up to Kumarghat in 1990. 

With the sincere efforts of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, broad-gauge train service commenced and several trains have been introduced over the past few years, strengthening Tripura's rail network, he said.

According to the Chief Minister, this is the first MEMU train in the North East region and also the first electric train from Tripura.

This train with 12 coaches has modern facilities including CCTV surveillance to ensure passengers' comfort, he said.

Speaking at the programme, Transport minister Sushanta Chowdhury said 18 trains are operated to and from Agartala including13 express and 5 DEMU trains.

He said, the new train will accommodate around 3600 passengers, with extended compartments.

Chowdhury also said, after a recent protest at Jirania railway station by the passengers for more trains, the Chief Minister had communicated with the Centre and the MEMU train service is beginning today.

He also said, the present state government's commitment is to deliver good governance up to the last mile.