Indian Railways: Indian Railways is a massive and bustling rail system, with millions of people traveling on it every day. But did you know that there has also been a train service operating from India that takes passengers all the way to another country?

Indian Railways: Indian Railways ranks among the largest rail networks in the world, with millions of people traveling on it daily. On any given day, approximately 14,000 trains are in operation, carrying around 28 million passengers. However, are you aware that there has also been a train service from India that takes you across the country’s borders into a neighboring nation?

Most people assume that the train operating across the Attari border—between India and Pakistan—is the only international train service available. However, this is not entirely accurate. Several passenger trains have also been running between India and Bangladesh, connecting the two nations via rail. Currently, however, these services have been temporarily suspended.

The Train That Connects India and Bangladesh

Notably, the most renowned train connecting India and Bangladesh is the Maitree Express, which used to run between Kolkata and Dhaka. Covering a distance of approximately 380 kilometers, this train took about 8 to 9 hours to reach its destination. All coaches on this train were air-conditioned, offering amenities such as AC First Class and AC Chair Car facilities. This service was launched in 2008 but has been suspended indefinitely since August 2024.

In addition to the Maitree Express, two other trains also operated between India and Bangladesh: the Bandhan Express and the Mitali Express. The Bandhan Express ran between Kolkata and Khulna, covering a distance of approximately 172 kilometers in 4 to 5 hours. This train service was inaugurated in 2017. Meanwhile, the Mitali Express operated from New Jalpaiguri in West Bengal to Dhaka Cantonment, covering a distance of approximately 513 kilometers in 9 to 10 hours. This service was launched in 2022.

Resumption of Freight Train Operations

However, in 2024, all these passenger trains were suspended due to political circumstances and a deterioration in relations between India and Bangladesh. Yet, the situation now appears to be gradually shifting. Following the formation of a new government in Bangladesh, there are signs of improving ties between the two nations. Freight train operations have already been resumed, and discussions are now underway regarding the restoration of passenger train services as well.

Particular emphasis is being placed on the early resumption of the Mitali Express, as this train connects key cities in both countries and was utilized by a large number of passengers. Consequently, it is anticipated that rail services between India and Bangladesh may once again get back on track in the near future.