The government plans swift implementation of large projects for the development of the railway sector. Although trains had been the country's major public transport for years, buses nowadays dominate people's transportation preference. Since independence, roads and highways have been receiving priority over other modes of transportation. Before the Partition, railways and navigable rivers served as the routes for goods and passengers in undivided Bengal. Thus, meeting up the demands for railway in forthcoming years is crucial to ensuring an equal development among public transport systems. After all, the government is likely to reinforce the railway communication between India and Bangladesh as Dhaka-Kolkata railway link is a successful endeavour. Meanwhile, the government has also decided to introduce a train service between Khulna and Kolkata.
Under such circumstances, why not a similar opportunity is applicable for Rajshahi? As one of Bangladesh's major and oldest cities, Rajshahi deserves a direct railway link with Kolkata. Trains moved between Rajshahi and Kolkata until 1947 and Rajshahi residents still make frequent visits to Kolkata. This is why one of India's Assistant High Commissions for Bangladesh is located there.
The government should actively consider an introduction of train service between Rajshahi and Kolkata so that citizens in the greater region of Rajshahi are benefited. Plus, the proposed train service may include stoppages at Chuadunga, Poradaha and Ishwardi for letting the people avail such facilitation.
Ahmad Nesar, Dhaka
[email protected]
- Friday, 22 November 2024 |
- Today's FE |
- e-Paper |
- Beta Website
