Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India and Bangladesh's distinguished leader, Sheikh Hasina, will jointly introduce three transformative projects in Bangladesh. These projects, aimed at bolstering regional connectivity and ensuring energy security, will serve as a testament to the enduring partnership between the two nations. The unveiling will take place during a virtual ceremony on November 1, marking a significant milestone in the cooperative efforts between India and Bangladesh.
The three groundbreaking projects set to be inaugurated are as follows:
Akhaura-Agartala Cross-Border Rail Link: This initiative, with a total investment of Rs. 392.52 crore from India, is a testament to cross-border cooperation. Covering a length of 12.24 km, it includes a dual gauge rail line stretching 6.78 km within Bangladesh and 5.46 km in the northeastern state of Tripura, fostering greater connectivity between the two nations.
Khulna-Mongla Port Rail Line: This project, with an overall cost of $388.92 million, was made possible through a concessional line of credit extended by the Indian government. It involves the construction of approximately 65 km of broad gauge rail route connecting Mongla Port to the existing rail network in the Khulna region of Bangladesh, thus integrating Mongla, the second-largest port in Bangladesh, into the country's broad-gauge railway network.
Maitree Super Thermal Power Plant - Unit II: This massive power project, located in the Khulna division of Bangladesh, has been developed with the aid of a $1.6 billion Indian concessional financing scheme loan. The 1,320 MW plant, situated in Rampal, is a joint venture between India's NTPCL and the Bangladesh Power Development Board under the banner of the Bangladesh-India Friendship Power Company Private Limited. The inauguration of Unit II follows the joint unveiling of Unit I by both prime ministers in September 2022. When fully operational, this power plant will significantly enhance energy security in Bangladesh, a crucial development for the nation's future.
Of particular note is the recent decision by the Bangladesh government to permit the transit and trans-shipment of cargo from West Bengal to the northeastern states via Chattogram and Mongla ports, further underscoring the growing ties and cooperation between the two countries.
These projects represent not only a remarkable milestone in India-Bangladesh relations but also a significant step forward in the shared pursuit of regional development, connectivity, and energy stability. The collaborative efforts between these two nations are poised to bring about transformative change in the region, ensuring a brighter and more connected future for all involved.
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