TRAINS TO RUN AGAIN ? Maitree, Bandhan & Mitali Express May Return

New Delhi : After a prolonged pause that disrupted cross-border travel between India and Bangladesh, a major revival of railway connectivity could soon bring relief to thousands of passengers, with the two countries reportedly preparing to discuss the possible resumption of train services and even the introduction of a new international rail link.

A crucial meeting between railway officials from India and Bangladesh is scheduled to take place on Tuesday, where proposals may include launching a new train connecting Rajshahi in Bangladesh with Kolkata in India, while discussions are also expected on bringing back the previously suspended Maitree Express, Mitali Express and Bandhan Express.

According to the information provided, preparations are being made with the hope that all three services could return to the tracks by October, although the final decision will depend on discussions and approval by both countries. The possible revival is being seen as particularly significant for passengers who depend on cross-border rail connectivity for travel, family visits, business, education and other purposes.

Among the key issues expected to be discussed is a possible change in the route of the Maitree Express, one of the most prominent railway links between India and Bangladesh. While the train previously operated through the Jamuna Bridge, Bangladesh has reportedly expressed interest in operating the service through the Padma Bridge, a major piece of infrastructure that could provide a different route between the two countries.

However, any change in the Maitree Express route would require mutual agreement between the railway authorities of India and Bangladesh before it can be implemented. The cross-border train services were suspended amid heightened security concerns following widespread violence and political instability in Bangladesh in July 2024, bringing an important mode of transportation between the neighbouring countries to a halt.

Since then, passengers travelling between the two nations have faced additional difficulties, while the suspension has also affected the broader connectivity that supports people-to-people contact and commercial movement.

The proposed revival of the services could therefore represent more than simply the return of trains it could restore an important transportation corridor linking communities on both sides of the border. The proposed Rajshahi-Kolkata service could further expand this connectivity by creating another direct rail option for passengers travelling between Bangladesh’s western region and eastern India.

At the same time, the possible return of Maitree, Mitali and Bandhan Express services could significantly improve travel options for people who previously relied on these international trains. Beyond passenger convenience, renewed railway connectivity could also contribute to stronger economic and commercial links between the two neighbours by facilitating movement and strengthening regional transportation networks.

Railways have historically played an important role in connecting India and Bangladesh, particularly because of the geographical proximity and deep social, cultural and economic ties between communities across the border. If the proposed plans receive final approval and services resume, the development could mark an important step towards restoring normal cross-border mobility after a prolonged disruption.

For thousands of passengers, the prospect of seeing these trains once again cross the India-Bangladesh border could bring a sense of relief and renewed connectivity, while the proposed Rajshahi-Kolkata service could open a new chapter in bilateral rail travel. The big question now is whether Tuesday’s discussions will pave the way for the trains to return by October and whether the revival of these rail links can become a fresh boost to people-to-people contact, travel and commercial relations between India and Bangladesh.