commuter train launch
Bangladesh Railway has introduced a newly upgraded commuter train on the Dhaka-Narayanganj route, promising a “metro-style” travel experience for passengers.
The train, with modernised facilities, and an expanded capacity of more than 1,000 passengers, will operate 16 times a day, according to railway officials.
Wednesday’s launch was timed to coincide with the country’s Independence Day celebrations.
“This is a gift from the Railway Department to the people,” said Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Zahidul Islam Mian, who attended the inaugural ceremony at Chasara Station in Narayanganj.
The train departed from Dhaka’s Kamalapur Railway Station at approximately 11am, reaching Chasara 40 minutes later.
Local, including District Superintendent of Police Pratyush Kumar Majumder and senior railway officials, were present at the event alongside civic and political leaders.
Officials said the new train replaces an older model that operated with eight coaches.
The revamped service now features eleven coaches, accommodating up to 1,176 passengers per journey.
Trains will begin service at 4:30am from Dhaka and continue throughout the day, with the final return trip from Narayanganj scheduled for 11pm.
“This new train provides greater inter-connectivity between coaches, allowing passengers to move freely,” said Zahidul, adding that the initiative is part of broader efforts to modernise transportation in Narayanganj.
Shamsu Mohammad Khwaja Shujon, the station master at Chasara, said: “Previously, old-fashioned trains used to run on this century-old railway line. Now, for the convenience of passengers, a new commuter train model has begun its journey. It's built inspired by the metro rail system.”
Explaining the upgrades, Shujon said that traditional seating arrangements had been redesigned.
“The previous seats have been replaced with new ones along the sides, allowing for more standing room. Additional handrails and support pillars have also been installed to ensure a safer commute,” he said.
The improvements extend beyond seating.
The coaches are now equipped with enhanced lighting and ventilation, and mats have been added to the floors to improve passenger safety.
Despite these upgrades, railway officials confirmed that fares will remain unchanged at Tk 20 per trip, urging commuters to purchase tickets before boarding.
