The much-anticipated Dhaka-Cox’s Bazar railway is set for maiden voyage today with the formal inauguration of the Cox's Bazar Express. The Ministry of Railways has meticulously orchestrated the launch, marking a significant milestone for connectivity and tourism in Bangladesh.
The inauguration ceremony for the Cox’s Bazar Express is scheduled to take place at the iconic Cox's Bazar railway station at approximately 11:30 am today. Railways Ministry Secretary Md. Humayun Kabir as the chief guest will inaugurate the service.
The grand launch isn't confined to the coastal beauty of Cox's Bazar alone, simultaneous festivities will unfold at Dhaka’s Kamalapur railway station, where the train will embark on its journey at around 10:15 pm on the same day. The Director General of Bangladesh Railway Kamrul Ahsan will be present to exchange greetings with passengers bound for Cox's Bazar.
The Cox's Bazar Express, destined to become a vital link between the capital and the renowned tourist destination, is scheduled to depart from Dhaka’s Kamalapur station at approximately 10:30 pm today. Making a strategic stop in Chittagong at 3:40 PM, the train will then proceed to Cox’s Bazar, reaching its destination at 6:40 am. The journey from the capital to the scenic town is expected to take approximately 8.10 hours.
Conversely, for those returning from the Cox's Bazar, the train will depart at 12:40 PM, arriving in Chittagong at 3:40 PM and finally reaching Dhaka at 9:10 PM.
This development not only enhances connectivity but also opens up new possibilities for tourism, offering a scenic and comfortable rail journey between the bustling capital and the picturesque coastal town. The launch of the Cox's Bazar Express is poised to be a game-changer, bringing joy to both commuters and travel enthusiasts alike, said an official of Bangladesh Railway.
Earlier, nearly 2,500 tickets for the December 1, 2, and 3 journeys were sold out electronically within an hour after the openings.
Ticket prices for the ‘Cox’s Bazar Express’ range from Tk 695 for Shovon chairs to Tk 1325 for AC chairs, However, in the inaugural train there will be no cabin and AC berth facilities.
The ‘Cox’s Bazar Express’ inaugurated by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on November 11.