'Maitri Setu' likely to be operationalised by September 1st

In a highly anticipated development, the long-awaited bridge linking India and Bangladesh dubbed the "Maitri Setu," is poised to open up new avenues for trade and communication as it approaches its grand inauguration on September 01.

A crucial milestone was reached during a pivotal meeting convened on Wednesday at 11:30 am in the conference hall of the Sabroom Nagar Panchayat. This meeting, chaired by Saju Waheed A, the District Magistrate of the southern district, marked a significant step forward in this historic endeavor.

The meeting brought together key stakeholders, including Sub-Divisional Magistrate Bidhanchandra Roy, Commandant Raspal Singh of BSF No. 96 Battalion, Debasish Nandi from the Land Ports Authority of India, Customs Superintendent Pranesh Dhar, Sabroom Nagar Panchayat Chairperson Rama Poddar Dey, and other luminaries from the Sub-Divisional Administration of Sabroom.

During the half-hour deliberation, several important issues were discussed. Notably, the conversations focused on tackling drainage challenges in flood-prone areas during monsoons due to the integrated check post. Additionally, plans were made for installing a drinking water pump house and reinforcing the electrical infrastructure within the integrated check post.

District Magistrate Saju Waheed A stressed the significance of the imminent inauguration of the long-awaited "Maitri Setu," set to become the gateway to South Asia. The ceremonial opening of the bridge on the 1st of the upcoming month signifies a historic milestone, expected to enhance trade and connectivity between the two nations.

Regarding defense considerations, the vicinity surrounding the integrated check post will witness the deployment of personnel from the 126 Battalion of the Border Security Force (BSF) and soldiers from the 96th Battalion of the Border Guard of Bangladesh (BGB).

District Magistrate Saju Waheed A, a key advocate of this monumental development, spoke candidly to the media, shedding light on the day's proceedings. The eagerly awaited inauguration of the "Maitri Setu" has generated tangible excitement within the public sphere, heralding a new era of cross-border cooperation and opportunity.