Editorial
Stage set for Dhaka-Kolkata train
It augurs well for both countries
THE train service between Dhaka and Kolkata, a link to be resumed after 43 years, will add a new dimension to traveling between the two most historic capitals of the region. If everything goes well, the much-awaited service in the shape of "Moitree Express" is to start on 14 April, Pahela Baishakh, which is an auspicious day for the Bengalis on the two sides of the border. According to the deal signed by the representatives of the two governments, passenger trains will run between Cantonment Station in Dhaka and Chitpur Station in Kolkata through the Darshana border for a period of three years. The treaty would be renewed if the two sides find it worthwhile after the period initially agreed upon.
The upside of the new deal is that it would increase connectivity among the peoples of not only the two countries but of the region as well. It could possibly be the cheapest mode of transportation for the people, which would prompt them to prefer train to any other mode. So, if a large number of people start to travel by train between the two countries there is no reason why the project should not be commercially viable. With the Indian railway making windfall profit last fiscal, we rest our hope with the railway authorities of the two countries to make an impact worth noticing. Affordable tickets, online booking, sticking to schedule and high quality service would be the major factors to make that impact.
We believe the Moitree Express would be the flag carrier of not only the two countries but of SAARC as well. As SAARC encourages traveling between the member states, an affordable mode of traveling is what people have been looking for with all earnestness. But both sides will have to ensure avoiding hassle in getting visa and obtaining tickets to popularise the service. We do not wish to see the wonderful opportunity go waste because of unprofessional handling at any stage of operating the train service. Welcome Moitree Express.
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