Dipak Kurmi
(The writer can be reached at dipaknewslive@gmail.com.)
India and Bangladesh marked a momentous occasion on November 1, 2023, as they jointly inaugurated three significant infrastructure and energy projects. The historic Akhaura-Agartala cross-border rail link, the Khulna-Mongla port rail line, and Unit II of the Maitree super thermal power plant were unveiled in a virtual ceremony attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India and Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina of Bangladesh. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi, India has become Bangladesh’s largest development partner, boasting a portfolio of nearly $10 billion in grants and concessional loans. Prime Minister Modi emphasised the pivotal role of infrastructure and connectivity in fulfilling the aspirations of their respective peoples. Over the past nine years, both nations have collaboratively launched new bus and rail services, immigration check posts, and container and parcel trains, showcasing their commitment to mutually beneficial cooperation.
The Akhaura-Agartala rail link stands out as a historic milestone, connecting India’s northeastern states to Bangladesh by rail for the first time. This connection not only enhances the connectivity between Bangladesh’s Chattogram port and the northeastern regions but also promotes trade and tourism. Spanning 12.24 km, with 5.46 km on the Indian side in Tripura and 6.78 km in Bangladesh’s Akhaura upazila, Bahmanbaria district, the project had its Memorandum of Understanding signed in 2013. Initially budgeted at Rs 972.52 crore in 2016, with Rs 580 crore allocated for the Indian segment and Rs 392.52 crore for the Bangladeshi part, the project underwent two revisions, resulting in a final estimated cost of Rs 1,255.1 crore, with Rs 862.58 crore designated for the Indian section alone. Financially supported by the Government of India, the Ministry for Development of the North East Region (DoNER) oversees funding for the Indian portion, and the Ministry of External Affairs manages expenses for the Bangladesh side. The Indian Railway Construction International Limited, a public sector undertaking of the Indian Railways, was responsible for construction on the Indian side, while Texmaco implemented the project on the Bangladeshi side. A total of 86.85 acres of land were acquired for the project on the Indian side and subsequently transferred to IRCON.
The Khulna-Mongla port rail line, costing $380 million, stands as another vital development. This project links Bangladesh’s second-largest port to its rail network, establishing a connection with India through the Petrapole cross-border rail link. Furthermore, the Maitree super thermal power project, funded by India, aims to address the energy needs of southern Bangladesh while enhancing energy security in the region. Prime Minister Modi emphasised the resolution of long-standing border agreements and the enhancement of inland waterways during the collaborative effort. These measures played a vital role, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, when medical oxygen was transported to Bangladesh. This joint initiative aligns with the vision of “Shonar (golden) Bangladesh,” as set by Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the founder of the country.
Prime Minister Hasina highlighted her government’s endeavours to enhance connectivity and trade with India’s northeastern states. Under her leadership, Chattogram and Mongla sea ports, along with Chattogram airport, have been opened for use by India. A strategic rail service has been inaugurated on the Padma bridge, and a new tunnel under the Kornophuli River is poised to increase the capacity of Chattogram port. This collaborative effort has played a crucial role in contributing to peace and stability in India’s northeastern region, showcasing the positive impact of good relations between neighbours.
The joint inauguration of the Akhaura-Agartala cross-border rail link, the Khulna-Mongla port rail line, and Unit II of the Maitree super thermal power plant between India and Bangladesh holds several future implications. It will undoubtedly enhance regional connectivity. The Akhaura-Agartala rail link, specifically, is poised to not only ease the transportation of goods and people but also open new avenues for trade and tourism between India’s northeastern states and Bangladesh. This improved connectivity has the potential to fuel economic growth and foster increased cultural exchange in the region.
The Khulna-Mongla port rail line provides direct access to Bangladesh’s second-largest port, streamlining trade between the two nations. This is expected to boost the volume of goods exchanged and stimulate economic growth in both countries. Additionally, the cross-border rail link will reduce transportation costs, promoting trade efficiency. The Maitree super thermal power plant plays a crucial role in addressing Bangladesh’s growing energy needs, contributing to energy security, reducing power shortages, and supporting industrial and economic development in southern Bangladesh. This is likely to have a positive impact on the business environment and investment opportunities in the region. The successful execution of these projects not only strengthens bilateral relations but also showcases the countries’ commitment to promoting peace, stability, and economic prosperity in the region. This cooperative spirit is likely to pave the way for further joint ventures and collaborative projects in the future. The geopolitical significance of these initiatives is evident, reinforcing India’s ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy and fostering positive relations with Bangladesh, potentially stabilising the region and encouraging similar cooperative efforts from neighbouring countries. Moreover, it may enhance India’s standing in both regional and international forums, highlighting the power of international cooperation in achieving shared goals and aspirations.