Inspection run on Ctg-Cox's Bazar rail line ahead of inauguration

Bangladesh Railway conducted an inspection run on the newly constructed rail tracks from Chattogram's Dohazari to Cox's Bazar today, in preparation for the formal inauguration next week. 

Led by the Government Inspector of Bangladesh Railway (GIBR), Ruhul Kabir Azad, senior officials from Railway Eastern Zone examined the construction progress of the project. 

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is set to inaugurate the railway on 11 November, with commercial operations starting on 1 December.

A special train, carrying the inspection team from Bangladesh Railway, made multiple stops along the route to scrutinize the project.

The railway tracks will be deemed suitable for train movement once they receive final approval and evaluation from the officials.

Originally, a trial train was scheduled for November 7, but the railway authorities later opted for an inspection run instead.

The project includes a 100 km railway line and nine stations under construction in various locations in Cox's Bazar and Chattogram. Not all stations will be operational initially.

The century-old Kalurghat Bridge posed a significant hurdle, but renovation work supervised by experts from the Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology has adapted the bridge for railway traffic. Successful testing with engines of varying weights has removed any further restrictions on running trains across the railway.

Locals joyous for 1st train in their vicinity
 
The local residents of Cox's Bazar were overjoyed to witness the train's arrival and stopped it at Dulahazra Malumghat market around 4 pm.

As the Bangladesh Railway inspection team assessed the project's progress, the train was moving at a slow pace while passing Chakaria station.

They expressed their gratitude to the government and the Prime Minister by showering the train with marigold petals and organising a jubilant procession. Police eventually cleared the tracks of the celebratory crowd.

Md Monir Hossain, a 72-year-old resident near Dolahajra station, expressed his joy, anticipating improved communication and reduced costs with the new train service.

For Satkania, Lohagara in Chattogram, and Cox's Bazar region, this rail connectivity is a novelty. Excited individuals of all ages gathered along the railway line, offering applause to the passing train.

A woman named Seema Gupta commented, "I saw a train for the first time in my life, and we hope to ride it in the future."

Economic impact 

Experts anticipate that this railway will not only enhance transportation in at least eight upazilas of South Chittagong and Cox's Bazar but also unlock the economic potential of the region.

Abu Morshed Chowdhury, President of Cox's Bazar Chamber of Commerce and Industry, explained, "This rail link will be beneficial for various industries, including fish, salt, dry fruits, and vegetables. Economic activities will flourish in the regions with the rail connectivity."

Chattogram already had a railway line up to Dohazari for train travel between Dhaka and Cox's Bazar, and a 100 km railway from Chittagong's Dohazari to Cox's Bazar is in progress.

Project Director Md Suboktagin told The Business Standard, "As of now, the project is 94% complete, with construction expected to finish by June 2024."

According to railway data, originally estimated at Tk1,852 crore, the project's cost increased to Tk18,034 crore in 2016. Out of this, the Asian Development Bank is providing Tk12,000 crore and the rest is being borne by the Bangladesh government.