India, Bangladesh launch cross-border passenger train service

NEW DELHI, Nov. 9 (Xinhua) — India and Bangladesh on Thursday jointly launched a new cross-border passenger train service aimed at bolstering rail link between the two countries.

The Bandhan Express train, which will operate between the eastern Indian city of Kolkata and Bangladesh’s industrial city of Khulna, was flagged off by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Bangladeshi Premier Sheikh Hasina from Delhi and Dhaka, respectively, via video-conferencing.

“I have always believed that India must have good relations with its neighboring countries and their leaders. I am glad that we are inaugurating projects that will go a long way in improving connectivity between our two countries,” Modi said, after the launch.

“I have always said that protocol must not come in the way of bilateral relations, especially when it comes to interactions with neighbors, and when it is aimed at achieving development and progress,” Modi said.

The Bandhan Express, meaning a train of bond, is the second cross-border passenger rail service between the two neighbouring countries, the first being Moitree Express that runs between Bangladesh capital Dhaka and Kolkata.