VOI World/ Desk
India and Bangladesh are moving towards restoring cross-border passenger train services, with the two countries discussing the resumption of the Maitree, Mitali and Bandhan Express trains by October.
Railway officials from both countries began talks in Dhaka on Tuesday as part of an inter-governmental railway meeting focused on reviving passenger services that have remained suspended since July 2024. Freight trains between the two countries have continued operating, but passenger connectivity has yet to return.
The services under discussion include the Maitree Express between Dhaka and Kolkata, the Bandhan Express connecting Khulna and Kolkata, and the Mitali Express linking Dhaka with New Jalpaiguri.
The possible revival comes after more than two years of suspension following political upheaval in Bangladesh in 2024. While normalcy has gradually returned, restarting passenger rail services would mark another step towards restoring people-to-people connectivity between the neighbouring countries.
Bangladesh is also expected to propose a new passenger train service between Rajshahi and Kolkata. Another issue likely to be discussed is Bangladesh’s interest in rerouting the Maitree Express through the Padma Bridge instead of its existing route via the Jamuna Bridge.
However, the October timeline remains dependent on agreements and arrangements emerging from the ongoing discussions. Officials are yet to announce a final decision on exactly when the services will restart.
If the talks result in an agreement, the return of the three trains could restore an important physical link between India and Bangladesh — and signal a gradual revival of broader bilateral engagement after a difficult period in relations.
