India, Bangladesh Set to Discuss Restart of Cross-Border Passenger Trains

India and Bangladesh are expected to hold discussions this week on resuming cross-border passenger train services that have remained suspended since the political unrest in Bangladesh in July 2024. The two-day Inter-Governmental Railway Meeting (IGRM) is scheduled to begin in Dhaka on Tuesday.

Freight train operations between the two countries were restored in February last year after a nine-month pause. However, passenger services have yet to restart. The possible revival of the Maitree Express, Bandhan Express and Mitali Express is expected to be a key item on the agenda.

A Bangladesh railway official confirmed that matters relating to the re-launch of these three services would be discussed during the meeting. Bangladesh is also expected to propose a new rail link connecting Rajshahi with Kolkata. Another proposal under consideration involves rerouting the Maitree Express between Dhaka and Kolkata via the newly constructed Padma Bridge instead of the Jamuna Bridge.

If an agreement is reached, the three passenger services could resume as early as next month. However, the restart would require final 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 was later extended indefinitely. The Mitali Express made its final journey to Dhaka on July 17, 2024, and did not return to India.

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.