Officials from India and Bangladesh are convening in Dhaka starting Tuesday, September 9, 2026, for a two-day Inter-Governmental Railway Meeting to discuss the potential resumption of cross-border passenger train services. These crucial talks are expected to conclude with a decision this week, focusing on restarting popular international connections that have remained suspended for over two years. The discussions bring together railway representatives alongside delegates from foreign and interior ministries as multi-ministerial clearance is mandatory for final approvals. Maitree Express, Bandhan Express, and Mitali Express have been suspended since July 2024 following political unrest in Bangladesh. Specifically, the Maitree Express was suspended on July 16, 2024, followed by the complete suspension of all three services on July 19, 2024. While freight train services were successfully restored in February 2025 after a nine-month suspension, passenger services remained halted due to diplomatic and administrative challenges.
Bangladesh’s Rail Ministry Secretary, Md. Fahimul Islam, confirmed that the talks cover several critical operational issues.
Both nations are exploring potential new routes including a direct railway connection between Rajshahi and Kolkata. Another major proposal involves rerouting the Maitree Express through the newly constructed Padma Bridge instead of the traditional Jamuna Bridge. Furthermore, authorities are discussing the introduction of commercial parcel booking facilities and initiating nighttime train operations across the border. These progressive steps aim to boost trade, tourism, and bilateral connectivity between the neighboring countries.
The high-level discussions are taking place under a fresh political climate following the Bangladesh Nationalist Party victory in the 2026 general elections, which replaced the interim administration previously led by Yunus. Previous attempts to restore passenger rail had faced significant hurdles due to visa issuance complexities and diplomatic friction.
If both governments reach a consensus and secure final approvals, passenger rail services could resume as early as next month, potentially ahead of the Durga Puja festival in October 2026. Travellers and railway enthusiasts eagerly await the outcome of this meeting as it promises to restore vital people-to-people links between India and Bangladesh.
