Dhaka, Sep 08 (V7N)- A two-day annual intergovernmental railway meeting has begun in Dhaka to discuss the resumption of three suspended Bangladesh-India passenger trains—Maitree, Bandhan and Mitali Express.
Representatives from Bangladesh and India joined the meeting at Rail Bhaban on Tuesday (September 8). If an agreement is reached, the three international passenger trains operating between Bangladesh and India could resume services as early as next month.
Passenger train services between the two countries were suspended following political changes in Bangladesh in 2024. However, bilateral freight train services resumed in February last year after remaining suspended for nine months. Passenger services have yet to restart.
At the meeting, Bangladesh is also expected to propose launching a new passenger train between Rajshahi and Kolkata.
In addition, Bangladesh plans to express interest in operating the Maitree Express between Dhaka and Kolkata via the Padma Bridge. Currently, the train operates through the Jamuna Bridge route.
The two-day meeting will also discuss suspended railway projects between the two countries and issues related to freight transportation.
The discussions are being closely watched as both sides consider restoring cross-border passenger rail connectivity after a prolonged suspension.
END/SMA/AJ
