South Chattogram to get faster rail connectivity through dual-gauge upgrade

Bangladesh Railway has launched a project to convert the 59.93-kilometre Chattogram-Dohazari railway line to dual gauge, aiming to improve connectivity between Chattogram Port and the country's northern, western and central regions.

The upgrade will allow both metre-gauge and broad-gauge trains to operate on the same track, reducing travel time and transportation costs while increasing the capacity of the rail network.

Project officials said the improved rail link would facilitate faster movement of goods from Chattogram Port, ease pressure on roads and create new opportunities for industry, agriculture, trade and tourism in southern Chattogram.

As part of the project, existing bridges, culverts, drainage systems, stations, platforms, loop lines, level crossings, signalling and telecommunications systems will also be upgraded. Safety infrastructure will be strengthened as well.

Local residents, however, have raised concerns about land acquisition, waterlogging, noise pollution and possible disruption to communities. Officials said affected people and institutions would receive compensation in accordance with existing laws, including compensation for damage to land, property, businesses, plants and crops.

A Grievance Redressal Management Committee will be formed to address complaints. The committee will include representatives of Bangladesh Railway, the upazila administration, public representatives, the Department of Environment and local NGOs.

Environmental concerns will also be addressed during implementation. 

Professor Monjurul Kibria said international standards would be followed to limit construction-related impacts. Measures will include regular water spraying to control dust, noise-management measures, proper waste disposal and safeguards for workers' health and safety.

He said acceptable noise levels would be maintained near religious institutions, educational facilities and hospitals, while unnecessary use of high-noise equipment would be avoided. Where trees must be removed, at least three trees will be planted for every tree cut.

Environmental experts have called for effective monitoring to prevent deforestation and control air and noise pollution while protecting biodiversity. 

Chattogram Department of Environment Deputy Director Zamir Uddin stressed the importance of a thorough environmental impact assessment (EIA) for the project.

Project Director Md Asadul Haque said the final EIA report would incorporate concerns and recommendations from local communities.

He said the dual-gauge conversion would strengthen the country's rail communication system and significantly improve connectivity between Chattogram Port and other regions, benefiting both passengers and the movement of industrial and agricultural goods.

The project is expected to make travel and logistics more efficient while reducing road congestion and transportation costs, giving fresh momentum to economic activity in southern Chattogram.