3rd September 2026

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Posted in Featured, Northeast, Tripura

Abhijit Nath, NET Correspondent, Tripura

Agartala, September 03, 2026: Tripura took another step towards modernising its transport and tourism infrastructure with the launch of app-based cab services, including Uber, and a new Tourism Information Centre at Maharaja Bir Bikram Airport on Thursday.

Tourism and Transport Minister Sushanta Chowdhury inaugurated the facilities at the MBB Airport premises. Agartala and Jogendranagar railway stations were also virtually connected to the programme, marking the simultaneous introduction of app-based cab services at the state’s major air and rail transport hubs.

Speaking at the event, Chowdhury said the initiative was aimed at making transportation more convenient, safe and comfortable for passengers and tourists while strengthening Tripura’s image as a modern and tourist-friendly state.

The minister appealed to existing prepaid auto-rickshaw operators to join the Uber platform rather than view it as a threat to their livelihood. He said app-based and prepaid services would operate according to approved government rates and passengers would have the freedom to choose their preferred mode of transport.

Chowdhury said the decision followed nearly two years of discussions and consultations, stressing that the government could not ignore the changing needs of passengers and tourists. He said around 4,500–5,000 passengers use MBB Airport daily, while Agartala and Jogendranagar railway stations together handle thousands more passengers every day.

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He also highlighted the importance of improving the first impression of visitors arriving in Tripura. While the airport provides a modern gateway to the state, the lack of convenient transport options after arrival could negatively affect tourists’ perception, he said.

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A major attraction launched alongside the cab service is the Tourism Metaverse, which uses AI and 3D technology to provide tourists with information about destinations, accommodation, food, travel distances and suggested itineraries. Visitors can scan a QR code to access the platform and even generate customised travel plans, such as a three-day tour of Tripura.

The minister also spoke about efforts to regulate traffic in Agartala, including the introduction of pink-coloured autos to distinguish city-based vehicles from those operating from outside. He said around 90 per cent of autos had already adopted the colour scheme.

Chowdhury further said new auto permits and registrations within Agartala city had been restricted in view of increasing vehicle numbers and traffic congestion. He urged transport workers to prioritise passenger service and cooperate with the department in adopting new technology and systems.

Calling on workers to embrace change, the minister said Tripura must keep pace with technological developments in other parts of the country. He assured transport workers that the department would support them in adapting to the new system.

The minister also announced that uniforms would be distributed among transport workers ahead of Durga Puja.

The programme was attended by senior officials of the Transport and Tourism Departments, police and traffic authorities, airport officials, transport workers and representatives of the newly introduced cab service.