Demands for the expansion and modernization of rail connectivity in the northern border district of Kurigram are intensifying. On Tuesday (March 31), the Kurigram District Development and Implementation Council submitted a formal application to the Railways Ministry through Deputy Commissioner Annapurna Debnath, seeking to boost trade and improve regional communication.
The delegation, led by Council President Professor Shafiqul Islam Bebu and General Secretary Syed Ahmed Babu, argued that despite Kurigram's long history with the railway, the district’s economic potential remains untapped due to outdated infrastructure.
The application outlines four primary demands to revitalize the region
Re-establishing the Kurigram-Nageshwari-Bhurungamari-Sonahat railway line. Constructing a dedicated railway bridge alongside the existing Dharla Bridge. Opening an alternative rail link to Dhaka via Chilmari and Gaibandha. Strengthening connectivity to facilitate regional and cross-border commerce.
The council emphasized that extending the rail line to the Sonahat Land Port would establish direct links with the Indian state of Assam and unlock trade opportunities with the proposed Bhutanese economic zone.
Residents believe improved rail links will be life-changing for the district.
"We lack a reliable transportation system," said Pappu Miyaji, a resident of Bhogdanga. "A functional railway would create jobs and boost local business."
Omar Faruk from Nageshwari highlighted the humanitarian aspect, noting that a better rail connection would reduce the time and suffering involved in traveling to Dhaka for emergency medical care.
Business leaders are equally hopeful. Abdul Latif, a businessman at Sonahat Port, noted that rail access would multiply border trade volumes. Abdul Aziz, convener of the Kurigram Chamber of Commerce and Industry, reiterated that a direct link from Kurigram to Assam and a shorter route to Dhaka via Gaibandha are essential for the district's economic survival.
Professor Shafiqul Islam Bebu concluded that there is no alternative to rail expansion if Kurigram is to break free from economic stagnation.
