The Maitree Express, the Dhaka-Kolkata “Friendship Express,” has been off the tracks for over two years. Dhaka now says it is ready to bring the train back, and the decision depends on India.
Why the Train Stopped
The Maitree, Bandhan and Mitali Express services were suspended from July 19, 2024, during the mass uprising in Bangladesh, and India later extended the suspension indefinitely. Freight trains have kept running throughout.
Talks Held in Dhaka
Railway officials from both countries met in Dhaka on September 8 to discuss resuming the three passenger trains. Bangladesh formally raised the restart, and officials said a final decision would come from the political authorities of the two countries. One outlet described an October restart window, but this is not officially confirmed.
What Dhaka Has Proposed
- Restarting the Maitree (Dhaka Cantonment to Kolkata Chitpur), Bandhan (Khulna to Kolkata) and Mitali (Dhaka Cantonment to New Jalpaiguri) services
- Rerouting the Maitree Express via the Padma Bridge instead of the Jamuna Bridge
- A new Rajshahi to Kolkata passenger train
- Night-time operations and dedicated parcel booking
Signs From India
India resumed tourist visas for Bangladeshis on June 27, which has raised public hopes. India’s High Commissioner Dinesh Trivedi said good news about the Maitree Express may come soon.
Why It Matters
The Maitree Express launched on April 14, 2008, reviving a link shut for 43 years after the 1965 war. It is both a travel route and a symbol of friendship. Many families, patients and traders depend on cross-border travel. Bangladesh has said the decision will be taken after the talks, and India has not announced a date. Watch for a joint announcement, a trial run or a visa and ticketing notice.
