The proposed Dhaka-Bhanga train fare must be reasonable

A proposed fare structure for trains traversing the newly inaugurated Padma Bridge has sparked debate and is now awaiting approval from the Railway Ministry.

The suggested rates have raised concerns, as they could potentially make train travel more expensive than bus transportation for equivalent distances.

The proposed fares were formulated by a railway committee, taking into account the additional distance covered by the Padma Bridge and the Gendaria-Keraniganj flyover.

Travelers between Dhaka and Bhanga, a distance of 77 kilometers, may be charged for a distance of 353 kilometers.

This is a stark contrast to the Dhaka-Chattogram, Dhaka-Sylhet, or Dhaka-Rajshahi routes.

The railway committee has calculated each kilometer on the Padma Bridge as 25 kilometers due to the pontage charge, while the Gandaria-Keraniganj flyover is considered equivalent to five kilometers per kilometer. This approach has contributed to the inflated fares.

The Sundarban Express will connect Dhaka to Khulna via the Padma Bridge, passing through Rajbari, Paturia, Poradah, and Jashore.

A proposal to extend the Madhumati Express train from Rajshahi to Dhaka is also under consideration.

Notably, a new 172-kilometer railway line is being constructed from Dhaka to Jashore as part of the Padma Bridge Rail Link Project, estimated to cost around Tk 400 billion.

Once the entire rail track is operational, train travel will be significantly more convenient, especially for passengers traveling to Jashore and Khulna.

The seven-member committee responsible for determining these rates has proposed additional distances for the Padma Bridge and other infrastructure, taking into account pontage charges and future considerations for new bridges and viaducts.

These recommendations will have a lasting impact on the fare structure and travel costs in the region.

The higher fare will discourage commuters from using the train and encourage privately operated buses.

We think the government should introduce a lesser fare than bus fare to make the railway service profitable.