Gangtok: The governments of Sikkim and West Bengal have signed an agreement to strengthen interstate connectivity and improve the livelihoods of drivers and transport operators, said an official statement issued here on Saturday.

The Reciprocal Transport Agreement was signed at Paribahan Bhavan in Kolkata on Friday, and taxis operating under the Special Permits will now be allowed to pick up passengers on their return journey from Bengal's Siliguri and other areas.

In addition, Sikkim-based transport vehicles travelling between Rangpo and Melli will no longer require countersignature permits under the newly introduced corridor facility.

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The pact follows discussions between the two state governments to strengthen connectivity, the statement said.

"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 measures are expected to improve the efficiency of transport operations while creating greater earning opportunities for Sikkim's drivers, it said.

Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang described the agreement as a historic milestone for the state's transport fraternity.

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He expressed his gratitude to West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari and Transport Minister Arjun Singh for their prompt support and cooperation in making the agreement a reality within a short span of time.

Tamang stated that 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.