Bangladesh Railway announced plans to acquire 30 locomotives for the Chittagong – Dohazari line, and this decision is part of a large-scale modernization of the national rail system. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Bangladesh Railway announced plans to acquire 30 locomotives for the Chittagong – Dohazari line, and this decision is part of a large-scale modernization of the national rail system
Photo: Jubayer Ahmed Rafsan

The Ministry of Railways has established a special committee to define the requirements for the new rolling stock. Experts will assess performance, energy efficiency, compliance with international standards, and reliability of components.

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Bangladesh Railway’s Director General Afzal Hossain explained that differing opinions on procurement forced the creation of an expert group. It will provide recommendations, after which the authorities will prepare tender documentation.

According to him, the process should begin as soon as possible because the country is facing a serious shortage of traction rolling stock. Currently, less than half of the locomotive fleet is in serviceable condition.

Bangladesh Railway and modernization of the line

The locomotive purchase is part of the reconstruction of the Chittagong – Dohazari route. To implement the project, the government of Bangladesh requested a $508 million loan from the Asian Development Bank.

The need for investment is clear: due to the poor condition of the tracks, train speeds have been reduced to 20 km/h in some sections, compared to the designed 100 km/h. New locomotives and infrastructure upgrades should resolve this problem.

Bangladesh Railway and international cooperation

Bangladesh actively cooperates with India in the railway sector. In May 2024, the country signed an agreement with Rail India Technical and Economic Service for the purchase of 200 passenger coaches for the 1676 mm broad gauge. The contract was valued at $111 million.

These agreements confirm the government’s strategy of engaging external partners and modernizing the railway system. The upcoming locomotive purchase is expected to increase the reliability of operations and strengthen regional economic ties.

FAQ

What is Bangladesh Railway and what does it manage?

Bangladesh Railway is the state-owned monopoly responsible for the country’s rail network, including both passenger and freight transport.

When will the locomotive procurement tender of Bangladesh Railway begin?

According to management, tender documents will be prepared after the expert committee completes its work, and the process is planned to start soon.

Will the new locomotives of Bangladesh Railway improve train speed?

Yes, with upgraded tracks and new rolling stock, train speeds are expected to rise from 20 km/h to the designed 100 km/h.

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