Rs 250-crore Sabroom Land Port to boost India-Bangladesh trade, set to begin operations in early next year

GOMATI : The newly constructed Land Port in Sabroom, Tripura, is ready for operation, announced the Land Ports Authority of India (LPAI) Chairman, Aditya Mishra, announced on Tuesday. This strategic infrastructure, located in the Gomati district near the Bangladesh border, is expected to begin operations by early 2025.

Significance of the Sabroom Land Port

Mishra emphasized the importance of the land port for both India and Bangladesh, stating, “The land port at Sabroom adjacent to Bangladesh is ready for operation. We wanted to make it operational on August 14 but could not due to the political situation in the neighbouring country. However, we are hopeful it will be functional early next year.”

The port, built at an estimated cost of Rs 250 crore, is situated adjacent to Maitri Setu (Friendship Bridge). It aims to facilitate seamless bilateral trade and enhance tourism opportunities between the two nations.

Stakeholder Engagement

During a program titled ‘Building Bridge: Trade and Connectivity through Land Port Sabroom,’ Mishra and other officials met with stakeholders to discuss the port’s operational readiness and its anticipated impact. Key attendees included Ravi Gandhi, BSF Eastern Command Additional Director General; Sailendra Kumar Sinha, Chief Commissioner of Customs and Indirect Taxes; and Vishwasree B, Director of Industries and Commerce Department, Tripura Government.

Mishra said the facility would not only boost trade but also create tourism opportunities on both sides of the border.

Infrastructure and Economic Potential

The Sabroom land port is strategically positioned to capitalize on its proximity to the Chittagong port in Bangladesh. It is anticipated to serve as a vital gateway for regional trade, offering efficient logistics and connectivity.

• Trade Impact: Enhanced bilateral trade is expected to promote economic growth for both countries.
• Tourism Growth: The port’s proximity to major landmarks and connectivity with Maitri Setu could make the region a hub for cross-border tourism.

Future Outlook

With the infrastructure ready, the land port awaits final operational clearance, which depends on the resolution of certain political considerations with Bangladesh. The facility marks a significant milestone in India’s efforts to strengthen its trade and connectivity framework with neighbouring nations.

This development aligns with India’s broader agenda to improve regional cooperation and infrastructure under the Act East policy.