India, Bangladesh likely to discuss resumption of passenger train services

India and Bangladesh are likely to discuss the resumption of cross-border passenger train services that have remained suspended since the political unrest in 2024, which toppled Sheikh Hasina's government. Freight train services between the two countries resumed in February last year following a nine-month suspension, but passenger services are yet to restart.

Bangladesh Railway officials are scheduled to hold a two-day meeting with their Indian counterparts in Dhaka starting Tuesday, according to news agency PTI. The possible resumption of the Maitree Express, Bandhan Express and Mitali Express will be among the key issues on the agenda during the Inter-Governmental Railway Meeting (IGRM).

"We are set to discuss matters relating to re-launching of the railway services - Maitree, Bandhan, and Mitali Express - in the IGRM (Inter-Governmental Railway Meeting) starting tomorrow," a Bangladesh railway official told PTI. Bangladesh is also expected to propose a new rail route connecting Rajshahi city with Kolkata.

Another proposal under consideration involves operating the Maitree Express between Dhaka and Kolkata via the newly constructed Padma Bridge instead of the Jamuna Bridge. Also Read | Dedicated Freight Corridors: How India’s 2,843-km rail freight network is expanding According to the report, if both sides reach an agreement, the three cross-border passenger train services could resume as early as next month.

However, the restart would require approvals from the relevant ministries in both countries before operations can begin. The Maitree and Bandhan Express services were suspended in July 2024 following violent protests in Bangladesh. The suspension was initially announced for a limited period but later extended indefinitely.

Meanwhile, the Mitali Express, made its last journey to Dhaka on July 17, 2024, but did not return to India, PTI reported, citing railway officials. The Maitree Express connects Dhaka with Kolkata, while the Bandhan Express links Khulna with Kolkata. The Mitali Express previously operated between Dhaka and New Jalpaiguri.