Bangladesh Railways signed an agreement with Indian company RITES Ltd for the procurement of 200 broad gauge passenger carriages for Tk1205.54 crore at the Railway Bhaban in Dhaka on Monday (20 May).
Currently, Bangladesh Railways has 2,016 carriages and 3,095 wagons in its fleet. The railway network has been expanded in the southern part of the country with the recent launch of the Padma Railway Bridge.
“As a result, new trains will be provided to the southern region and old coaches will be replaced with new ones. Broad gauge passenger coaches will be required,” said Railways Minister Zillul Hakim at the programme.
The minister said that there is no time in the contract when the carriages will be delivered.
“It will be beneficial for us. We can plan accordingly. If two sets of carriages can be delivered within the next two months, it will be good for us. The rest will be scheduled,” said the minister.
Railway Ministry Secretary Humayun Kabir stated that once the new coaches are added, the speed of the railway will increase, enhancing passenger service as well.
Railway Director General Sardar Shahadat Ali said that the railway aims to expand its communication network, establish rail connections in different parts of the country, and enhance passenger services.
The procurement of the 200 coaches is financed by the Bangladesh Government and the European Investment Bank (EIB).
According to Bangladesh Railways, the coaches will be made of stainless steel, feature high-speed capabilities, have roof-mounted AC units, include an automatic air brake system, and be environmentally friendly.
After the completion of these projects, Bangladesh Railways is hoping that a new horizon of possibilities will be opened in the field of passenger transport by railways in Bangladesh.
Indian Company Chairman and Managing Director Rahul Mittal, Additional Member of Production Unit of Indian Railways Sanjay Kumar Pankaj and European Union Head of Corporation Michal Krejza, among others, were present at the event.
