Rajya Sabha MP K. Vanlalvena Calls for Urgent Construction of Kawrpui Bridge for Indo-Bangladesh Border Trade Centre

Dated April 2026: During the ongoing Parliament Budget Session, Rajya Sabha MP K Vanlalvena raised concerns over the lack of tangible progress on the proposed Indo-Bangladesh border trade centre, despite an agreement reached nearly a decade ago. He stressed the urgent need for the construction of the Kawrpui approach road and bridge to facilitate cross-border trade.

Vanlalvena noted that although plans for enhancing trade connectivity with Bangladesh have been in place for years, there has been little visible advancement on the ground so far. He urged authorities to expedite infrastructure development, particularly the construction of the Kawrpui bridge, which is crucial for improving access to the proposed trade hub.

He welcomed the initiative taken by the Union Home Ministry to begin construction of a bridge over the Khawthlang Tuipui river at an estimated cost of ₹54 crore. Calling it a positive step, he expressed gratitude to Union Home Minister Amit Shah for approving the project.

Recalling his visit in 2021 to several Border Security Force (BSF) camps along the India-Bangladesh border, Vanlalvena highlighted the challenges faced by personnel and local residents. He said that some BSF camps were not connected by proper roads, making access extremely difficult. In certain cases, even critically ill individuals could not be transported due to the absence of connectivity, leading to tragic consequences.

He stated that both BSF officials and local community leaders had shared these concerns with him, prompting him to raise the issue with the Union Home Ministry. Following his request, approval was granted for the construction of the bridge over the Khawthlang Tuipui river.

Vanlalvena emphasized that the bridge would significantly benefit not only security forces stationed along the border but also the residents living in remote areas. It would improve connectivity, enhance mobility, and support economic activities, particularly trade with Bangladesh.

He further remarked that the Central Government’s decision reflects its commitment to inclusive development and demonstrates that even remote and border regions are not being neglected.

The MP reiterated the need for swift execution of the project so that the long-pending vision of a functional Indo-Bangladesh border trade centre can finally become a reality.