New rail link planned to cut Dhaka-Chattogram travel time
State Minister for
Railways Habibur Rashid said a feasibility study is currently underway for a
proposed chord line between Narayanganj and Cumilla, which would shorten the
existing railway route by around 80 kilometers.
Speaking to reporters
during a visit to Chattogram Railway Station on August 1, the minister said the
project could reduce travel time between Dhaka and Chattogram by approximately
one hour and 20 minutes once implemented.
He said the initiative
forms part of the government's plan to strengthen rail services linking Dhaka,
Chattogram, and Cox's Bazar amid rising passenger demand.
Earlier in the day, the
state minister inspected the Dohazari-Cox's Bazar railway line and reviewed
station facilities, passenger services, security arrangements and operational
activities.
Habibur also said the
government is considering introducing an additional pair of intercity trains on
the Dhaka-Chattogram-Cox's Bazar route to accommodate growing tourist and
passenger traffic.
According to the
minister, the proposed services are expected to ease ticket shortages, reduce
congestion and provide more convenient travel options.
He added that the government's priority is to maximize the use of the railway network by improving capacity and enhancing passenger services.
