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Tripura Gets First Electric MEMU Train; CM Manik Saha Flags Off Agartala-Karimganj Service

  • By Thetripurapost Desk, Agartala
  • Jul 04, 2026
  • 75

Tripura entered a new era of railways connectivity on Saturday as Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha inaugurated the state's first electric Mainline Electric Multiple Unit (MEMU) train, connecting Agartala with Karimganj in neighbouring Assam. The launch also marks the introduction of the first MEMU train service in the entire Northeast strengthening regional transport and supporting the Centre's vision of modern railway infrastructure.

The new train is expected to significantly improve daily travel for commuters, students, office-goers and traders while enhancing connectivity between Tripura and Assam.

CM Manik Saha Flags Off Historic Rail Service

The inaugural ceremony took place at Agartala Railway Station in the presence of Transport Minister Sushanta Chowdhury, Rajya Sabha MP Rajib Bhattacharjee, MLA Mina Rani Sarkar, senior railway officials and other dignitaries.

Flagging off the service, Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha described the launch as a historic milestone in Tripura's transportation sector and a reflection of the state's rapidly expanding railway infrastructure.

From Dharmanagar to Electric Trains: A Remarkable Journey

Recalling Tripura's railway history, the Chief Minister said the state first witnessed train services in 1964 when a railway line connected Dharmanagar with Kalkalighat in Assam. The network was later extended to Kumarghat in 1990.

He noted that after the introduction of broad-gauge connectivity under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, Tripura experienced unprecedented railway expansion, with several new train services connecting the state to major cities across India.

According to Dr. Saha, the newly introduced MEMU train is both Tripura's first electric train and the Northeast's first MEMU service, representing another milestone in the region's infrastructure development.

Modern Facilities for Better Passenger Experience

The newly launched 12-coach MEMU train has been equipped with modern passenger-friendly amenities, including CCTV surveillance systems for enhanced safety and security.

Railway officials believe the service will offer faster, cleaner and more comfortable travel while supporting environmentally sustainable transportation through electric traction.

MEMU Train Can Carry Around 3,600 Passengers

Transport Minister Sushanta Chowdhury said Agartala currently operates 18 train services, including 13 express trains and five DEMU services.

He informed that the new MEMU train has the capacity to carry nearly 3,600 passengers, thanks to its expanded coach configuration designed for high-volume daily commuters.

 

 

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The minister also revealed that the decision to introduce the service followed public demand after passengers protested at Jirania Railway Station seeking additional train connectivity. Following the protest, Chief Minister Manik Saha took up the matter with the Central Government, resulting in the launch of the MEMU service.

He reiterated that the state government's objective is to ensure quality governance and improved public services reach every section of society.

Agartala Railway Station Under Amrit Bharat Redevelopment

Alongside railway expansion, Agartala Railway Station is undergoing extensive redevelopment under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme.

The first phase of the project involves an investment of around ₹48 crore and includes the construction of a modern three-storey station building. The redevelopment is expected to be completed by March 2027.

The upgraded station will feature:

  • Spacious waiting halls
  • Improved passenger amenities
  • Better accommodation facilities
  • Enhanced accessibility
  • Additional platforms
  • Modern station infrastructure
  • Improved passenger circulation

The project aims to transform Agartala into one of the most modern railway stations in Northeast India.

Modernisation of Udaipur and Kumarghat Stations Progressing

Railway infrastructure development is also moving ahead rapidly at Udaipur Railway Station in Gomati district and Kumarghat Railway Station in Unakoti district under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme.

 

 

Also Read:   https://thetripurapost.com/NewsTripuraPost/beyond-overhead-wires-agartala-set-for-major-electricity-infrastructure-overhaul-3577.html

 

Officials expect both projects to be completed by September, further strengthening railway infrastructure across Tripura and improving passenger convenience.

Why This Train Matters

The Agartala-Karimganj MEMU service is expected to:

  • Improve regional connectivity between Tripura and Assam.
  • Offer affordable daily transportation.
  • Promote eco-friendly electric rail travel.
  • Reduce travel inconvenience for commuters.
  • Support economic activities and regional trade.
  • Strengthen Northeast India's railway network.

 

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