Sylhet: Labour and Employment Minister Ariful Haque Choudhury today announced the government's intentions to extend the railway line from Dhaka to Jaflong via Sylhet. This development aims to transform Jaflong, Tamabil, and the surrounding regions into a significant tourism hub, alongside enhancing the road communication network.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the minister shared these plans while speaking to journalists at the Jaflong tourist spot, where he led a high-level government delegation to evaluate the proposed development of the area. The visit included discussions with relevant officials on the necessary measures to boost the tourism industry in the region.
Ariful highlighted the challenges faced by tourists due to the absence of a railway connection between Sylhet and Jaflong, inadequate road infrastructure, and lack of quality accommodation. He emphasized that these factors currently pose significant inconvenience to visitors traveling from across the country.
A feasibility study is slated to be conducted soon, which will inform the subsequent steps required to implement the project. This initiative includes constructing a 47-kilometre new railway line between Sylhet and Jaflong.
The announcement was made in the presence of key government officials, including Railways Secretary Md Fahimul Islam, Labour and Employment Secretary Md. Abdur Rahman Tarafder, Road Transport and Highways Secretary Dr. Mohammed Ziaul Haque, and Bangladesh Railway Director General Md. Afzal Hossain, among others.