Cox’s Bazar Iconic Railway Station May Be Handed Over to Private Operator

The government is considering handing over the full operation and management of Cox’s Bazar’s iconic railway station to a private company, Railways State Minister Habibur Rashid said Saturday (August 1).

The minister made the remarks while speaking to journalists after inspecting the shell-shaped station shortly after arriving in Cox’s Bazar at around 9:30 a.m.

Habibur Rashid said the government wants to transform the station from a conventional railway facility into an international-standard, tourism-friendly rail hub. As part of that plan, authorities are considering private-sector management to ensure full-scale operations.

“A feasibility study is currently underway,” the minister said, adding that officials are also reviewing infrastructure, security and environmental issues at the station.

During his inspection, the minister visited different sections of the station and reviewed passenger services, infrastructure, cleanliness, security and ongoing operations. He also held discussions with railway officials and instructed them to take steps to bring the station into full operation and ensure international-standard services.

Later, while visiting Chakaria Railway Station, the minister reiterated that the government is assessing whether private management of the Cox’s Bazar station would be effective and passenger-friendly.

He said authorities are also monitoring the condition of stations along the Chattogram-Cox’s Bazar railway route, as well as their management systems and passenger services.

The minister said approximately 240,000 trees were cut during construction of the Chattogram-Cox’s Bazar railway line. He said authorities are reviewing the current condition of trees planted as compensation and will undertake additional social forestry projects where necessary.

According to the minister, the railway authorities, local lawmakers, the Forest Department and social organizations will work together on new afforestation initiatives. The government also plans to assess the environmental impact of the railway project and take necessary restoration measures.

Asked about allegations of irregularities, corruption or misconduct involving railway officials, Habibur Rashid said complaints would be investigated and action taken if wrongdoing is established.

He also said there is currently no scope for political favoritism or undue influence in the tendering process. However, any allegations of irregularities will be investigated, he added.