Electric Trains to Run on Narayanganj-Dhaka-Joydebpur Route; Cost: Tk 3,822 Crore

A major initiative is underway to introduce electric trains and reduce reliance on diesel within Bangladesh Railway's existing network. As part of this effort, a project worth Tk 3,822.51 crore—aimed at installing an electric traction system along the 52.32-kilometer Narayanganj-Dhaka-Joydebpur railway route—is being presented at the ECNEC meeting.

Under this project, an overhead catenary system will be installed along the entire route, enabling trains to operate by drawing electricity directly from overhead lines. This will reduce dependence on the diesel-electric trains currently in use.

Plans are in place to procure a total of 16 sets of Electric Multiple Unit (EMU) trains, each consisting of five coaches. Additionally, a modern EMU maintenance depot will be constructed in the Joydebpur area to handle the regular repair and maintenance of these trains.

The project's initial cost was estimated at Tk 4,282.86 crore. However, following a review and adjustment of costs across various sectors during the project evaluation phase, the proposed cost was reduced to Tk 3,822.51 crore.

Of the total cost, approximately Tk 942 crore will be provided from government funds. The remaining amount—roughly Tk 2,880 crore—is planned to be secured as project loans from the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the European Investment Bank (EIB).

According to project officials, the introduction of electric trains will lower operational and fuel costs compared to diesel-powered trains. It is also expected to reduce maintenance expenses while increasing train speeds and passenger-carrying capacity.

Since electric trains can accelerate more rapidly, travel times between Narayanganj, Dhaka, and Joydebpur could be reduced. Increased train capacity on this busy rail corridor may also alleviate some of the passenger pressure on road transport.

The use of electric trains will reduce reliance on fossil fuels. Bangladesh Railway's project proposal notes that this could play a positive role in curbing carbon emissions and air pollution. However, stakeholders believe that for the project to operate successfully, it is crucial to ensure an uninterrupted power supply and develop a skilled workforce capable of operating and maintaining electric trains. Without ensuring the proper maintenance of this new technology, achieving the expected benefits may prove difficult.

The Narayanganj-Dhaka-Joydebpur route is one of the country's busiest rail corridors. The introduction of electric trains on this vital link—connecting industrial zones with the capital—is expected to bring about a significant transformation in the passenger transport system.

The success of this project would pave the way for expanding the electric traction system to other key routes within the Bangladesh Railway network. This would facilitate the gradual modernization of the country's conventional rail system, making it faster and more environmentally friendly.