Business Eye Report
Bangladesh Railway (BR) is poised to reignite the long-awaited cord line study project, aiming to create a direct rail connection between Dhaka and Chattogram via Narayanganj. This initiative is set to drastically cut travel time and operational costs along the critical Dhaka-Chattogram corridor. Initially shelved in March
by the previous
Sheikh Hasina administration, the cord line study is now back on the agenda, reflecting a renewed interest, particularly under the current interim government. The project, which is considered pivotal for enhancing the efficiency of the country's primary rail route, had previously been paused due to political concerns.
The proposed cord line will introduce a new track traversing through Narayanganj and Laksam in Cumilla, bypassing the existing route through Tongi and Gazipur. This new alignment is anticipated to shorten the journey by 92 to 93 kilometers, reducing the travel time from the current five hours to under three hours.
However, the cord line project has encountered several hurdles over the years, often influenced by political interests. Previously estimated at $1.5 billion for construction, the cord line was evaluated alongside a more ambitious $10 billion plan proposed by Sheikh Hasina's government to introduce a high-speed train on the same route.
BR sources have revealed that a decision on whether to resume the cord line study will be made next week. This study is critical as it coincides with an ongoing examination of electric traction for the Dhaka-Chattogram corridor. The combined cost of these studies, including the cord line, is projected to be Tk 180 million.
Despite the challenges inherent in major rail projects, especially during the interim government period, completing the study and detailed design for the cord line remains a priority for BR. The project holds considerable promise for transforming the country's rail infrastructure, potentially leading to a more efficient and cost-effective transportation system.
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