Tripura CPI leader optimistic about opening of India-Bangladesh ‘Maitri Setu’

Leader of the Opposition in the Tripura Legislative Assembly and CPI(M) Politburo member Jitendra Chaudhury has expressed optimism about the opening of the Maitri Setu, the bridge connecting India and Bangladesh over the Feni River.

“I am hopeful that it will be opened,” said Chaudhury.

Constructed at a cost of ₹133 crore, the bridge links Sabroom in South Tripura with Ramgarh in Bangladesh. It is expected to enhance cross-border trade and people-to-people connectivity between the two nations. The 1.9-kilometer-long bridge, named Maitri Setu (Friendship Bridge), symbolizes the bilateral relationship and goodwill between India and Bangladesh.

Although inaugurated in March 2021, the bridge is yet to become operational.

Located just 72 kilometers from Bangladesh’s Chattogram Port, Maitri Setu was envisioned as a gateway to a new chapter in regional cooperation between the two neighbors. However, more than four years after its inauguration, there is still uncertainty over its opening. The bridge was slated to become operational in August last year, but the plan was reportedly delayed due to political developments in Bangladesh.

Chaudhury has accused the ruling BJP leadership in Tripura of being apathetic towards the issue, claiming they failed to impress upon the central government the strategic importance of the bridge.

He emphasized that Maitri Setu could significantly boost trade and regional connectivity between the two countries. Given the proximity to the international seaport in Chattogram, the bridge would facilitate smoother transportation of goods. Farmers in Tripura could also use this route to export their produce abroad.

Chaudhury added that it was the previous Left Front government that initiated the process of constructing the bridge to facilitate both passenger and cargo movement, in response to public demand.