App-based cab services were launched in Tripura on September 3 at three major transport hubs, as the state stepped up efforts to modernise passenger mobility and tourism infrastructure. The initiative was inaugurated by Transport and Tourism Minister Sushanta Chowdhury at Maharaja Bir Bikram Airport in Agartala, while Agartala Railway Station and Jogendranagar Railway Station were connected to the launch through a virtual programme.
The rollout comes alongside the opening of a Tourism Information Centre at the airport featuring a metaverse-based tourism experience. The government said the combined initiatives are aimed at making travel more convenient for residents and visitors while presenting Tripura as a modern and tourist-friendly destination.
App-based cab services expand across key entry points
The new app-based cab services cover Maharaja Bir Bikram Airport, Agartala Railway Station and Jogendranagar Railway Station. The three locations are among the state’s important gateways for visitors arriving by air and rail.
According to officials, passengers will be able to choose between online cab bookings and prepaid auto-rickshaw services. The objective is to improve last-mile connectivity and reduce the difficulties travellers can face when arranging transport after arriving in an unfamiliar city.
The introduction follows several weeks of discussions between the state government, transport officials and representatives of motor unions. In August, the government had announced plans to introduce online cab services at the three locations from September 3. Officials also discussed fare regulation and measures to prevent passengers from being charged additional amounts.
Focus on convenience and safer transport
Transport Minister Sushanta Chowdhury said technology-driven transport has become important for improving the experience of people entering the state. He pointed to the modern infrastructure at Maharaja Bir Bikram Airport and said convenient transport outside the facility was equally important for visitors.
The app-based cab services are expected to give passengers another option for arranging rides through their mobile phones. The government has also urged traditional auto-rickshaw operators to join digital platforms rather than see the new system as a threat to their livelihoods.
Fare transparency is another important aspect of the initiative. Earlier discussions involved obtaining rate charts from auto-rickshaw unions and preparing a final fare structure. The government said extra charges would not be permitted.
The move follows earlier efforts by the state to introduce app-based transport at major travel hubs. The government held a high-level meeting in August with police officials, transport organisations and other stakeholders to examine the implementation of the system.
Metaverse tourism centre opens at airport
Along with digital transport, Tripura has introduced a technology-focused Tourism Information Centre at Maharaja Bir Bikram Airport. The facility uses metaverse technology to provide visitors with a digital way to explore the state’s tourism attractions.
The centre is designed to offer an immersive introduction to Tripura’s cultural, natural and heritage destinations. Reports said visitors can use digital tools to explore attractions and obtain information that can help them plan their trips.
The tourism initiative is significant because airports and railway stations are often the first points of contact for visitors. By providing information at arrival points, the government hopes to make it easier for tourists to discover destinations beyond Agartala.
Digital transport linked with tourism plans
The launch of app-based cab services and the metaverse tourism facility reflects a broader push to combine transportation and tourism through technology. Better connectivity can help visitors travel from entry points to hotels, tourist attractions and other destinations with greater ease.
Tripura has also been developing digital tourism services. Its official travel ecosystem includes platforms offering information on attractions, accommodation, cab services and tour packages, indicating a wider move towards online travel planning.
For local transport workers, the transition could also create pressure to adapt to digital booking systems. The government has sought cooperation from motor unions as the new services expand, while stressing that modernisation should support both passengers and transport operators.
A new push for Tripura tourism
The introduction of app-based cab services at the airport and railway stations is expected to strengthen Tripura’s last-mile transport network. For tourists, predictable booking options and clearer fares could make the arrival experience smoother.
The metaverse-based Tourism Information Centre adds another layer by allowing visitors to discover the state’s attractions before beginning their journeys. Together, the initiatives signal Tripura’s effort to use technology not only to improve transportation but also to strengthen its tourism appeal.
As the new system settles in, its effectiveness will depend on reliable service, fair pricing, cooperation from transport operators and continued improvements in infrastructure. If implemented smoothly, the initiatives could help make Tripura more accessible to tourists while giving residents more modern options for everyday travel.
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