Dhaka: India and Bangladesh have begun formal discussions on restoring cross-border passenger train services that have remained suspended for more than two years. Railway officials from both countries are meeting in Dhaka under the Inter-Governmental Railway Meeting (IGRM), with the revival of the Maitree, Bandhan and Mitali Express among the key issues on the agenda.
The passenger services were suspended in July 2024 amid widespread political unrest in Bangladesh. While freight train operations between the two countries continued, passenger connectivity remained halted for more than two years. The latest talks mark the first formal discussion on restarting the three international passenger services since the suspension.
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 in West Bengal. Railway authorities from both sides are expected to discuss operational arrangements, security, financial settlements, rolling stock and infrastructure requirements before any final decision is taken.
According to officials, if both sides reach an agreement and the necessary approvals are obtained, the three services could resume as early as October 2026. However, railway-level discussions alone will not be enough. Clearances from the foreign, home and other relevant ministries of both countries will also be required before passenger operations can restart.
Bangladesh is also expected to place several new proposals before the Indian side. One of the major proposals is a new passenger train connecting Rajshahi with Kolkata. Dhaka is also likely to seek a new route for the Maitree Express through the Padma Bridge, instead of its earlier route via the Jamuna Bridge.
Other proposals reportedly include running passenger trains at night and introducing parcel services on international passenger trains. Bangladesh is also seeking greater cooperation in freight operations and railway infrastructure projects.
The revival of passenger rail connectivity comes at a time when India and Bangladesh are attempting to rebuild bilateral engagement after a period of political strain. The restoration of direct train services could provide an important boost to travel, tourism, medical visits and people-to-people contact between the two neighbouring countries.
For thousands of regular travellers who relied on these trains before their suspension, the Dhaka talks have raised hopes that direct rail connectivity between India and Bangladesh could return soon.
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