Anticipated as a game-changer for the northern districts of Bangladesh, the long-awaited Bogra-Sirajganj rail line project is on the brink of alleviating the commuting woes of the region. Once operational, the project will trim the distance between Bogra and Dhaka by a significant 112 kilometers, translating into time savings of over three to four hours for commuters.
This infrastructural breakthrough is not only poised to enhance connectivity but also promises to catalyze trade and commerce across the country. The Bogra district administration has initiated the land acquisition process after a five-and-a-half-year wait since the project’s approval, signaling the beginning of construction early next year.
Officials reveal that despite the close proximity of 72 kilometers between Bogra and Sirajganj, the absence of a direct railway line forces trains to take a circuitous route through Santahar, Natore, and Ishwardi in Pabna, elongating travel times.
Senior Sub-Assistant Engineer (Loco) of the West zone of Bangladesh Railway, Kazi Sumon, highlights the potential fuel cost savings, emphasizing that reducing the train route from Bogra to Dhaka by 112 kilometers could save millions annually.
President of the Bogra Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Masudur Rahman Milon, underscores the transformative impact of the direct railway line on communication systems for eight districts in the Rangpur region. He anticipates significant improvements in trade and commerce for Joypurhat and Naogaon in the Rajshahi division, asserting that the project will reshape the face of the entire region.
Project Details:
- Approved by the Executive Committee of the National Economic Council (Ecnec) on October 30, 2018.
- Envisages the construction of an 85km dual gauge (broad gauge and meter gauge) railway line from Bogra to Sirajganj.
- Requires acquisition of 960 acres of land, with Tk1,921 crore allocated for the process.
- Implementation to be funded by Bangladesh and a loan from India, with an estimated project cost of Tk5,579.70 crore.
- Indian loan contribution: Tk3,146.59 crore.
- Initially slated for completion by June 30, 2023, the project faced delays in consultant appointment and design finalization.
- Construction to include three junction stations and seven stations, strategically positioned to optimize connectivity.
- Land acquisition notices served, marking a significant step towards project realization.
With these developments, the Bogra-Sirajganj rail project is poised to usher in a new era of efficiency, connectivity, and economic prosperity for the northern districts of Bangladesh.
