Efforts are underway to launch train services on the new Khulna-Dhaka and Benapole-Dhaka routes via Narail, as proposed by the Western Railway.
However, the exact timeline and format for train operations are yet to be finalized.
The trains on the new route via the Padma Bridge will travel from Khulna through Singia in Jessore, Narail, Madhumati Bridge, Kashiani in Gopalganj, and Bhanga to Dhaka.
Return trains will run from Dhaka to Benapole via Jessore and then back to Khulna through Narail.
The current Khulna-Dhaka route covers 376 kilometers, while the new route via Narail will be only 208 kilometers, reducing the travel distance by 168 kilometers.
This new path will take just 3.5 hours. Discussions are ongoing about operating 3-4 trains on this route, including the possibility of a train running from Khulna to Dhaka via Benapole and vice versa.
Progress on the Padma Bridge rail link
On October 10 last year, the partial opening of the Padma Bridge Rail Link Project saw the launch of the 82-kilometer line between Dhaka and Bhanga in Faridpur.
The 87-kilometer stretch from Bhanga to Jessore is now complete, establishing a 169-kilometer direct rail link between Dhaka and Jessore.
Initially, it was rumored that the train service would launch in July and begin commercial operations on November 1.
However, the launch did not materialize. Recent discussions suggest a possible start on December 1 or 2, but no official announcement has been made yet.
Preparations and challenges
Test runs have been successful, with a train completing the Dhaka-Khulna route at 100 km/h on November 24.
Despite the new route's readiness, Sundarban and Chitra Express trains will continue operating on their old routes.
Railway officials, including the Khulna Traffic Inspector and the General Manager of Western Railway, have confirmed that plans are underway to utilize existing staff for initial operations if necessary.
Discussions include scheduling daily services between Khulna and Dhaka via Narail and Madhumati Bridge.
Khulna Station Master Masud Rana said that no schedules or instructions were received as of November 30, and no new carriages have arrived in Khulna. However, preparations are in place to begin operations as soon as the ministry finalizes the decision.