Trial train run on Ctg-Cox's Bazar likely in September

The trial run of a train from Chattogram to Gumdhum via Dohazari and Cox's Bazar is expected to begin in September this year.

Project sources said the construction works of the rail route is going on in full swing.

Its authorities are trying to complete the project before the extended schedule and 86% of the project work has already been completed. The construction of 84km railway lines of 128km from Dohazari to Cox's Bazar has already been completed, the sources added.

The construction of three railway stations out of nine has been completed while two or three other stations will be completed by September next. The work of the remaining stations is going on in full swing now.

Project Director Mohammad Mofizur Rahman told BSS that over 85% construction work of the project has been completed while the remaining 15% work will be done by June 2024.

Railway sources said the project was to be completed in June 2022 and has been extended by two years.

Mofizur Rahman hoped that the trial rail communication will begin by this September before eight months of the stipulated time.

A total of 128km single line and dual-gauge rail line is being constructed between Dohazari and Cox's Bazar.

Mofizur Rahman said there are 39 major bridges, 242 culverts, a number of underpasses, overpasses and laying of 81km of 100km railway tracks has so far been completed.

The 128km route will have nine stations at Satkania, Lohagora, Chokoria, Dulahazra, Eidgao, Ramu, Cox's Bazar Sadar, Ukhiya, and Gumdum. These stations will have 100% computer-based interlocking signal systems and a fully digitalised telecommunications network.

The new rail line to ensure fast and smooth movement of trains from the port city to the tourism town Cox's Bazar as part of the mega project, he added.

A total of Tk6,034 crore out of Tk18,034 crore project cost is being met from domestic sources while the Asian Development Bank is providing Tk12,000 crore as credit. Two Chinese firms are implementing the project.

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina laid the foundation stone of the project in April 2011.