The decision to introduce air-conditioned (AC) coaches on the Chattogram–Cox’s Bazar route has been reversed even after an official announcement, triggering widespread dissatisfaction among passengers.
Bangladesh Railway (East) Zone planned to launch a modern service on the Chattogram–Cox’s Bazar route with 16 coaches, including four AC coaches. However, the plan has now been changed, and the same coaches are being considered for a special train service on the Dhaka–Cox’s Bazar route instead.
According to railway sources, after new coaches were added to the Dhaka–Chattogram route’s “Mahanagar Express,” the older Indonesian coaches were supposed to be deployed on the Chattogram–Cox’s Bazar route. With rising passenger demand on this tourism-heavy route, the move was considered an important upgrade. However, due to pressure from different levels and operational restructuring, the decision was later withdrawn.
Currently, on the Dhaka–Chattogram–Cox’s Bazar corridor, the intercity trains “Cox’sbazar Express” and “Parjatak Express” operate on the Dhaka–Cox’s Bazar route, while “Saikat Express” and “Prabal Express” run on the Chattogram–Cox’s Bazar route. These trains operate both directly between Dhaka and Cox’s Bazar and between Chattogram and Cox’s Bazar.
Railway officials confirmed that the Chattogram–Cox’s Bazar trains will continue operating with the existing older coaches and rakes.
New Special Train Plan for Dhaka–Cox’s Bazar
Railways are now preparing to introduce a new special train on the Dhaka–Cox’s Bazar route, likely operating several days a week with stoppages at multiple stations. This will allow passengers from intermediate stations, not just Dhaka, to travel to Cox’s Bazar.
Officials said the demand came mainly from local political circles seeking stoppages on the currently non-stop trains operating on the route. However, adding stoppages to the existing express services is not operationally feasible. As a result, a separate stopping service is being considered.
Railway Position
Bangladesh Railway (East Zone) General Manager Md. Sabuktgin said efforts are underway to improve service quality on the Cox’s Bazar route. Working to enhance passenger service on the Cox’s Bazar route. Considering demand, another train from Dhaka is under planning. A decision may be finalized within the next week.
He said that improvements on the Chattogram–Cox’s Bazar route will be implemented gradually.
The cancellation of the promised AC coaches has led to frustration among passengers on the Chattogram–Cox’s Bazar route.
Consumer Association of Bangladesh (CAB) Vice President SM Nazer Hossain said expectations for improved train services had been high, and the sudden change in decision has disappointed passengers.
Since the launch of the Dohazari–Cox’s Bazar rail line on December 1, 2023, the route has become one of the busiest tourist corridors in the country. Ticket shortages, overcrowding, and schedule disruptions are frequently reported, especially during holidays and peak tourist seasons.
At present, “Saikat” and “Prabal” express trains operate with older second-class coaches, leading to complaints about comfort and service quality. Frequent delays also occur due to operating a single rake multiple times a day.
Railway officials said limited availability of modern coaches and constraints in rolling stock management have forced repeated changes in route development plans. Locomotive shortages and rake management issues are also affecting punctual operations.
Experts believe that improved rail services on the Cox’s Bazar route could significantly boost domestic tourism and ease passenger pressure. However, repeated policy changes and delays may reduce passenger confidence.
While the promised AC coaches for the Chattogram–Cox’s Bazar route remain uncertain, Bangladesh Railway is now prioritizing a new special train service on the Dhaka–Cox’s Bazar route, marking a significant shift in its operational plan.
