The proposed budget for FY2026-27 includes the construction of a cord line on the Dhaka–Cumilla section of the Dhaka-Chattogram railway corridor, a move expected to shorten the route by 80 kilometres.
Finance Minister Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury made the announcement while presenting his maiden budget in the Jatiya Sangsad on Thursday.
The finance minister said that the government is implementing a range of development initiatives to build a safe, modern, and efficient railway system by increasing network capacity and expanding regional connectivity.
Steps have also been taken to make rail transport more technology-driven for both passenger and freight services, he said.
The minister said the government’s long-term railway plans include connecting all districts to the rail network, expanding links to ports, procuring modern locomotives, coaches, and wagons, and enhancing the capacity of the Saidpur and Pahartali railway workshops.
Plans are also underway to manufacture coaches and locomotives locally.
Other initiatives include constructing dual-gauge double tracks, introducing modern signalling systems, and preparing for electric traction and high-speed rail services, he added. Furthermore, the government aims to establish the Dhaka–Chattogram corridor as a major transport artery and develop Chattogram into a regional logistics hub.
However, the budget speech did not include any announcement regarding the long-demanded Sirajganj-Bogura line, despite repeated calls from regional stakeholders. Absence of Bogura-Sirajganj forces trains to travel an extra 120 kilometres via Santahar, Natore, and Ishwardi in Pabna. This detour is both time-consuming and costly for passengers.
While traveling from Bogura to Dhaka takes about 6 hours by road, the train journey takes 10 to 11 hours. Railway sources note that the direct distance between the two districts is only 72 kilometres. If the new railway line is implemented, travel time from Bogura to Dhaka via Sirajganj would drop to just 5 hours.
According to official sources, the project was approved by the Executive Committee of the National Economic Council (Ecnec) on 30 October, 2018, with an initial estimated cost of Tk5,579.7 crore. While originally slated for completion by 30 June 30, 2026, the project timeline has now been extended to 30 June, 2031.
