Final Trial Run of Padma Rail Link: Locals Chant ‘Sheikh Hasina’s Contribution’ (video)

Faridpur, November 24 – The trial journey of the Dhaka-Gopalganj-Jashore rail route via the Padma Bridge echoed with slogans of “Sheikh Hasina’s contribution” as excited locals gathered to cheer for the milestone achievement.

On Sunday morning, crowds at Bhanga Railway Station and Kashiani Station enthusiastically chanted slogans as the trial train passed through the newly constructed broad-gauge single-line track. The train departed from Dhaka’s Kamalapur Station at 9:10 AM and reached Khulna Station via Bhanga Junction and Jashore’s Rupdia and Singia Stations at 1:10 PM, completing the trial in just three hours and forty-five minutes.

The new rail service is set to officially begin commercial operations in the first week of December, connecting Dhaka, Jashore, Khulna, and Benapole via the Padma Bridge.

Local resident Mohona Mukta expressed gratitude, saying, “The people of southern Bangladesh will never forget Sheikh Hasina’s contributions. She paved the way for progress, and though she may not be here forever, we will always remember her.”

Another local, Habibur Rahman Sumon, added, “Sheikh Hasina is our crown jewel. The nation eagerly awaits her leadership. We will enjoy the benefits of her contributions but never forget her.”

Bangladesh Railway’s Director General, Sardar Shahadat Ali, hailed the trial as a success, saying, “We reached Khulna in three hours and forty-five minutes. The trial run was a great achievement.”

Railways Secretary Abdul Baki confirmed that commercial operations on the route could begin in early December. Several railway officials and staff were present during the trial run.

The Dhaka-Bhanga section of the rail line was inaugurated last October, and five trains currently operate on that route. This extension via the Padma Bridge marks a major step in connecting the southern regions with the capital more efficiently.