Dhaka:Bangladesh Railway is planning the construction of a 90-kilometre Dhaka-Cumilla chord line, which is expected to significantly reduce the Dhaka-Chattogram railway distance and cut the journey time by up to two hours. The project is estimated to cost between Tk 75,000 crore and Tk 90,000 crore.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the proposed railway line will shorten the existing 320-kilometre Dhaka-Chattogram route to approximately 240 kilometres. This reduction in distance is projected to decrease travel time from the current five to six and a half hours to around three to three and a half hours.
The project considers two construction options a combination of 65 kilometres elevated and 25 kilometres underground at an estimated cost of Tk 75,000 crore, or an entirely elevated 90-kilometre route costing Tk 90,000 crore. Md. Rafiqul Islam, Bangladesh Railway's Chief Planning Officer, mentioned that the final project cost depends on the chosen construction method. The fully elevated option, though pricier by Tk 15,000 crore, could minimize land acquisition needs by approximately 333 acres.
Both proposals have been presented to the Prime Minister, with the fully elevated option receiving priority at the preliminary stage due to its potential in conserving scarce land resources, as noted by the concerned minister. Land acquisition holds long-term economic value, as its use for railway construction could limit future agricultural and housing opportunities.
The feasibility study for the project is complete, with design work ongoing. Md. Abidur Rahman, Project Director of Bangladesh Railway's Railway Connectivity Improvement Preparatory Facility, highlighted the aim to eliminate the lengthy detour in the current railway network. The new route will connect Dhaka to Cumilla via Fatullah, Shyampur, and Narayanganj, crossing the Shitalakkhya River, with an elevated section possibly extending to Daudkandi.
Currently, trains from Dhaka to Chattogram travel via Tongi, Bhairab, and Akhaura, covering around 320 kilometres. The new connection could reduce this to 240 kilometres, saving travel time by one-and-a-half to two hours. The proposed line aims to have no level crossings, instead utilizing underpasses and overpasses to improve operational efficiency and reduce accident risks.
The project is expected to ease pressure on the existing Tongi-Kamalapur corridor and bolster trade and economic activities in Dhaka, Narayanganj, Daudkandi, and Cumilla. It could also enhance import and export transportation by providing a shorter freight route between Chattogram Port and other regions.
Bangladesh Railway is exploring financial assistance from the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the European Investment Bank (EIB), along with potential investment through a public-private partnership model. The ADB has shown interest in financing, though no agreements have been finalized. Further steps, including land acquisition and securing financing, must be completed before construction can commence.
Once implemented, the Dhaka-Cumilla chord line is anticipated to significantly improve railway connectivity and transportation efficiency across the country.