State Minister Habibur Rashid speaks at Chattogram Railway Station on plans to shorten Dhaka-Chattogram rail distance. Photo : BSS

CHATTOGRAM, Aug 1, 2026 (BSS)- State Minister for Railways Habibur Rashid stated that a feasibility study is underway for the new railway line as part of government efforts to reduce the distance between Dhaka and Chattogram.

The government has initiated efforts to decrease the rail distance between Dhaka and Chattogram as there is a desire to enhance passenger services on the railways connecting Dhaka-Chattogram-and Cox's Bazar, he said. 

Habibur Rashid made these remarks while addressing journalists at Chattogram Railway Station this afternoon.

Currently, a train journey between the two cities takes around two and a half to three hours. If the proposed project-- a feasibility study is being conducted to create a chord line from Narayanganj to Cumilla-- is implemented, the railway distance between Dhaka and Chattogram will be reduced by approximately 80 kilometers, resulting in a time savings of one hour and 20 minutes, he said.
 
Earlier, the State Minister inspected the railway line from Cox's Bazar to Dohazari. He remarked, "In light of the increasing demand from tourists and general passengers, we are contemplating the introduction of a pair of new trains on the Dhaka-Chattogram-Cox's Bazar route. 
 
He expressed hope that the new train pair would significantly reduce passenger suffering, ease ticket pressure and ensure a more comfortable, convenient and timely journey on the route.

"Our primary objective is to maximize passenger service on the railway by fully utilizing our capacity," the minister added.

During the visit, the state minister inspected various sections of the station and reviewed passenger services, infrastructure, cleanliness, security arrangements and overall its operational activities.