Northeast Desk, 21st May: The Tripura government is actively pursuing measures to enhance the supply of fuel and essential goods through Bangladesh, aiming to overcome challenges posed by disruptions in rail and highway links during the monsoon season.
Transport Minister Sushanta Chowdhury announced plans to develop alternative routes to ensure a steady flow of fuel and goods, bypassing conventional rail links through Assam and the national highway connecting Agartala with neighboring states. This initiative follows a recent fuel crisis triggered by a goods train derailment in Assam.
Chowdhury highlighted the forthcoming Agartala-Gangasagar (Bangladesh) rail tracks, expected to be operational within the next six months to a year. Once completed, this route will enable direct transportation of fuel and goods from Kolkata via Bangladesh. Chief Minister Manik Saha also affirmed plans to activate the rail service between Agartala and Gangasagar soon.
In addition, the Indian Oil Corporation Ltd (IOCL) is constructing a large fuel depot in Sekerkote, Sepahijala district, to augment fuel storage capacity. Chowdhury expressed confidence in IOCL’s timely completion of the project, ensuring a steady fuel supply for the state.
Ahead of the monsoon season, Tripura has stockpiled sufficient fuel reserves, including 1,700 kl of petrol and 2,726 kl of diesel. The Food and Civil Supplies Department has also accumulated essential food items such as rice, wheat, oil, sugar, salt, and pulses. The state’s Public Distribution System boasts significant reserves, ensuring food security for up to 70 days for rice, 28 days for sugar, 22 days for pulses, and 45 days for salt.
Chowdhury assured residents that despite potential connectivity disruptions during the monsoon, Tripura is well-prepared to mitigate any shortages of essential items. The government’s concerted efforts aim to safeguard the welfare and well-being of citizens, ensuring a seamless supply chain for critical commodities.
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