After years of anticipation, the Mongla Port is now seamlessly integrated into the country's railway network. At 10 AM last Saturday, the Betna Express train, carrying 600 passengers from Benapole, made its historic arrival in Mongla at 2 PM. 
 
With the inauguration of this railway line, the longstanding aspirations of the local populace, intertwined with bustling economic prospects, are set to blossom across the southern region. Reporting directly from Mongla, Abu Hussain Sumon brings you the latest developments.
 
The inception of the Khulna-Mongla railway track dates back to 2016, aiming to bridge Mongla Port with the nation's railway infrastructure. Despite initial projections for completion by 2019, the project encountered delays on five occasions, culminating in its final realization in October 2023. 
 
Spanning a distance of 64 kilometers from Fulbari in Khulna to Mongla, this railway marvel boasts a prominent rail bridge over the Rupsa River, along with 107 small and large culverts, 8 platforms, and 9 underpasses. Notably, the railway was virtually inaugurated on November 1st of the preceding year by the Prime Ministers of Bangladesh and India. 
 
Seven months later, on a significant Saturday, formal train services commenced along the Khulna-Mongla railway line, ushering in the 'Mongla Express,' a commuter train operational six days a week, excluding Tuesdays.
 
The Khulna-Mongla railway line heralds a dawn of new economic prospects, promising seamless connectivity between Dhaka and Mongla Port. With the unveiling of this vital transportation artery, the long-cherished aspirations of the local populace have found fulfillment. They anticipate enhanced travel experiences at affordable rates, fostering greater accessibility for diverse purposes, including business ventures, trade endeavors, and even medical journeys to India.
 
The inauguration of this long-awaited railway line is poised to catalyze expanded business and trade networks between Bangladesh, India, Bhutan, and Nepal. The fare for the Mongla-Benapole route has been fixed at 85 BDT, while the journey until Fulbari in Khulna is priced at 45 BDT, promising affordability and convenience for travelers along this transformative route."
 
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