The governments of Sikkim and West Bengal have signed a new transport agreement to improve interstate connectivity and support the transport sector. The Reciprocal Transport Agreement aims to make travel between the two neighbouring states smoother while creating better earning opportunities for drivers and transport operators. Officials announced the development in a statement issued on Saturday.

The agreement was signed on Friday at Paribahan Bhavan in Kolkata. Representatives from both state governments took part in the signing ceremony after holding discussions on improving transport links between the two states. The new arrangement focuses on making passenger travel more convenient and reducing operational difficulties for transport services.

One of the biggest changes under the agreement will benefit taxis operating with Special Permits. These taxis can now pick up passengers while returning from Siliguri and other parts of West Bengal. Earlier, many vehicles had to travel back without passengers after completing their trips. The new rule will help drivers earn more while improving the availability of transport services for travellers.

The agreement also introduces a new corridor facility for transport vehicles from Sikkim. Vehicles travelling between Rangpo and Melli will no longer need countersignature permits. This change will simplify the movement of transport vehicles on this route and reduce paperwork for operators. Officials expect the measure to make daily transport operations faster and more efficient.

The official statement highlighted another major benefit under the agreement. The number of countersignature permits available for Sikkim taxis has increased significantly. "It introduces several significant benefits for Sikkim's transport sector. The quota of countersignature permits for Sikkim taxis has been increased from 3,000 to 6,000," the statement said.

The higher permit quota will allow more taxis from Sikkim to operate across the state border. Officials believe this step will improve transport services while increasing income opportunities for drivers. They also expect smoother movement of passengers and commercial vehicles between the two states.

The agreement came after discussions between the governments of Sikkim and West Bengal on strengthening regional connectivity. Both states worked together to develop a transport arrangement that supports drivers, transport operators and passengers. The new rules are expected to improve transport efficiency while encouraging stronger cooperation between the neighbouring states.

Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang welcomed the agreement and described it as an important achievement for the state's transport community. He said the new arrangement would benefit thousands of people who depend on the transport sector for their livelihood. He also thanked the West Bengal government for extending its support during the discussions.

Tamang expressed his gratitude to West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari and Transport Minister Arjun Singh for helping finalise the agreement within a short period. He appreciated their cooperation and acknowledged their role in making the transport pact possible.

He further said the agreement would improve transport services and strengthen ties between the two states. Tamang stated, "The agreement would provide significant relief to thousands of drivers, enhance regional connectivity, and further strengthen the longstanding bond of friendship and cooperation between the two neighbouring states."

The new transport agreement marks an important step for both Sikkim and West Bengal. It addresses long-standing issues faced by transport operators while introducing practical solutions that make interstate travel easier. The changes will reduce travel restrictions, increase business opportunities for taxi drivers and improve transport connectivity across the region.

The agreement also reflects the commitment of both state governments to work together on regional development. With easier travel rules, a higher permit quota and simplified procedures for transport vehicles, the new arrangement is expected to benefit passengers, drivers and the overall transport network in the coming years.