**Agartala, July 4:** The Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) on Saturday launched the Northeast’s first-ever Mainline Electric Multiple Unit (MEMU) train service, connecting Agartala in Tripura with Karimganj in southern Assam. The launch marks the beginning of electric passenger train services in Tripura and a major milestone in the region’s railway modernisation.
Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha flagged off the MEMU train at Agartala Railway Station, describing the initiative as a new chapter in the state’s railway history. He said the service would provide faster, safer and more comfortable travel while promoting environment-friendly transportation.
“Tripura has become the first state in the Northeast to receive MEMU train services. The new service will strengthen regional rail connectivity and make daily commuting easier and more convenient,” Saha said, thanking Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw and officials associated with the project.
The Agartala-Karimganj MEMU train, with a carrying capacity of around 3,600 passengers, will operate six days a week except Sundays. Regular commercial operations will begin on July 6.
According to NFR Chief Public Relations Officer Kapinjal Kishore Sharma, the train, which earlier operated as a Diesel Electric Multiple Unit (DEMU), has now been upgraded to an electric MEMU following the electrification of the route. He described the launch as a landmark achievement in NFR’s efforts towards sustainable, energy-efficient and passenger-friendly rail services.
The 12-coach electric train is equipped with modern amenities, including LED lighting, bio-toilets, CCTV surveillance, a GPS-based passenger information system, public address system and stainless steel coaches. Compared to DEMU trains, MEMU services offer faster acceleration, lower operating costs, reduced maintenance, smoother rides and zero emissions at the point of operation.
Sharma said the service would benefit daily commuters, students, traders, office-goers and tourists while improving connectivity between Tripura and adjoining areas of Assam, boosting regional trade and economic activity.
Tripura Power Minister Ratan Lal Nath said the state has achieved 100 per cent electrification of its 271-km railway network. He also highlighted recent railway infrastructure milestones, including broad-gauge conversion, the Agartala-Akhaura rail link with Bangladesh, and redevelopment of four railway stations under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme.
