Tripura CM Flags Off Northeast's First MEMU Train; Says Sabroom Will Be Gateway To Bangladesh

Last Updated:July 04, 2026, 17:13 IST

Saha said Tripura's railway network has now reached Sabroom, the state's southernmost subdivision, and expressed confidence that the town would emerge as a gateway to Bangladesh.

Northeast India on Saturday got its first Mainline Electric Multiple Unit (MEMU) train service, with Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha flagging off the Agartala-Karimganj route and describing South Tripura’s Sabroom as a future “gateway to Bangladesh" once cross-border rail and road links become operational.

A MEMU is a self-propelled electric commuter train designed for short- and medium-distance journeys. Unlike conventional locomotive-hauled trains, it offers quicker acceleration and braking, making it better suited for routes with frequent halts while carrying a larger number of passengers.

The newly launched train, which can accommodate around 3,600 passengers, is equipped with CCTV cameras and GPS tracking to enhance passenger safety and improve operational efficiency.

Addressing the inaugural function, Saha said the service marks another milestone in strengthening railway connectivity across the Northeast and thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw for expanding rail infrastructure in the frontier state.

“This is the first MEMU service in the Northeast. It will connect the two cities in the region," he said.

The chief minister said Tripura’s railway network has now reached Sabroom, the state’s southernmost subdivision, and expressed confidence that the town would emerge as a gateway to Bangladesh once the Maitri Setu linking Sabroom with Ramgarh across the border becomes operational.

He also said the Agartala-Akhaura railway link is expected to be operational shortly, paving the way for seamless cross-border travel between India and Bangladesh.

Highlighting future expansion plans, Saha said the state has proposed doubling the railway line between Chandranathpur in Assam and Sabroom. The final location survey for the 263-km project has been completed, while the detailed project report is in its final stages.

“The number of trains to and from Agartala station will increase once the double line is laid. We have also proposed introducing train services to cities such as Jammu, Gaya and Puri," he said.

Tripura Transport Minister Sushanta Chowdhury said 18 trains currently operate from the state, including 13 express services and five DEMU trains, adding that the government remains committed to strengthening transport infrastructure and improving regional connectivity.

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Shankhyaneel Sarkar

Shankhyaneel Sarkar is a senior subeditor at News18. He covers international affairs, where he focuses on breaking news to in-depth analyses. He has over five years of experience during which he has c...Read More

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