Ctg Correspondent
Railways Minister Sheikh Robiul Alam inaugurated the extended Mohanagar Express service to Cox’s Bazar via Chattogram at Kamalapur Railway Station in the capital yesterday evening.
The extension of the 721/722-numbered train, previously operating between Dhaka and Chattogram, is expected to benefit passengers from Narsingdi, Kishoreganj, Brahmanbaria, Cumilla and Feni by improving rail connectivity to the popular tourist destination.
Under the announced schedule, train No. 722 will leave Kamalapur at 8.30pm, reach Chattogram at 2:40am and depart at 3am for Cox’s Bazar, arriving at 6am. On the return journey, train No. 721 will leave Cox’s Bazar at 9am, reach Chattogram at 12.10pm and depart for Dhaka at 12.30pm, arriving at Kamalapur at 6.30pm.
The train will stop at 11 intermediate stations: Dhaka Airport, Narsingdi, Bhairab Bazar, Ashuganj, Brahmanbaria, Akhaura, Kasba, Cumilla, Laksam, Nangalkot and Feni. However, the published stopping-station list does not identify a boarding station in Kishoreganj district, requiring clarification from Bangladesh Railway.
Tickets for the first day reportedly sold out quickly after sales began. The train has more than 700 seats in four classes: Shovon Chair, Snigdha, AC Seat and AC Berth.
Shafiqul Islam, a resident of Brahmanbaria town, welcomed the extension, saying it would allow local passengers to travel directly to Cox’s Bazar without changing trains.
The service will operate six days a week, with Sunday as its weekly holiday. However, concerns have emerged over punctuality as a single rake will serve both directions, leaving limited time for cleaning, inspections and other preparations between journeys.
Similar concerns have been raised over the Bijoy Express, which has faced complaints about delays since its route was extended to Jamalpur. Railway observers say efficient turnaround arrangements, regular maintenance and careful scheduling will be essential to keep the Mohanagar Express on time.
The extension adds to existing rail services to Cox’s Bazar, including the Cox’s Bazar Express and Tourist Express from Dhaka and the Saikat Express and Probal Express from Chattogram. Its success will depend on punctuality, ticket availability and the quality of passenger services. #EK