RAJSHAHI, Nov 14 V7N- The prolonged suspension of the Uttara Express train has caused significant distress for low-income passengers in northern Bangladesh. The train, which operated on the Parbatipur-Rajshahi-Parbatipur route, was temporarily halted on December 22 last year. Residents, particularly those from low-income groups, have urged railway authorities to reinstate the service.

The Uttara Express used to depart Parbatipur at 4 AM, passing through Madhnagar, Naldanga, Natore, and the Abdulpur Junction before reaching Rajshahi. It would then leave Rajshahi at 11:45 AM to return to Parbatipur.

Local residents, including Dewan Faruk, Yasin-ur Rahman, and Mizanur Rahman from Birakutsa and the Madhnagar-Naldanga areas, shared their struggles. They noted that the closure has increased pressure on other trains while forcing passengers to use more expensive alternatives. For instance, traveling from Birakutsa to Natore by train costs only 30 Taka, whereas using CNG transport now costs 120 Taka, a significant burden for low-income travelers.

The station master of Madhnagar Railway Station, Md. Momin Uddin Pramanik, assured that the matter would be reported to higher authorities for consideration.

Residents hope that the railway authorities will take swift action to resume the Uttara Express, easing their travel challenges and reducing their financial strain.

END/RAR/DHK/RH