Tripura to Strengthen Supply of Fuel and Goods Through Bangladesh Route

The Tripura government is actively pursuing an innovative solution to enhance the supply chain of fuel and essential goods through Bangladesh, as announced by a minister this Monday. This strategic move aims to establish an alternative route that would circumvent the conventional rail links through Assam and the national highway that connects Tripura's capital, Agartala, with its neighbouring state. This initiative comes in response to the critical fuel shortage experienced following a goods train derailment in Assam’s Jatinga.

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Seasonal landslides during the monsoon often disrupt traffic on the Assam–Agartala national highway and through the rail links, which are vital for Tripura's connectivity. "In light of the recent railway network disruption in Assam’s Jatinga, we are devising alternative arrangements to guarantee an uninterrupted supply of fuel and goods via Bangladesh. The Agartala-Gangasagar Bangladesh rail tracks are expected to be operational for goods transportation within six months to a year. This will enable direct transportation of fuel and goods from Kolkata via Bangladesh," Transport Minister Sushanta Chowdhury explained during a press conference.

Chief Minister Manik Saha has recently indicated that the rail service between Agartala and Gangasagar will commence operations soon. Furthermore, Chowdhury disclosed that the Indian Oil Corporation Ltd (IOCL) is in the process of constructing a substantial fuel depot in Sekerkote, Sepahijala district, for fuel storage purposes. "We are optimistic that IOCL will finalize the project within six months to a year. The establishment of this facility will ensure a reliable fuel stock for the state, which will be invaluable in mitigating any transportation disruptions," he stated.

In preparation for the impending monsoon season, Chowdhury highlighted that the state has already accumulated a significant stockpile of fuel, with 1,700 KL of petrol and 2,726 KL of diesel. He also mentioned that the Food and Civil Supplies Department has adequately stocked essential food items such as rice, wheat, oil, sugar, salt, and pulses under the Public Distribution System. According to him, "The state possesses a rice supply for 70 days, sugar for 28 days, pulses for 22 days, and salt for 45 days. Additionally, we have a satisfactory stock of other food items, including edible oil. We anticipate no shortage of essential commodities during the monsoon season, even if connectivity is disrupted."

This proactive approach by the Tripura government not only aims to mitigate the impact of seasonal disruptions on its supply chain but also underscores its commitment to ensuring the availability of essential commodities for its residents throughout the year.