Bangladesh Election 2026: Major Parties Unveil Rail Infrastructure Promises
As Bangladesh prepares for its general election scheduled for February 12, 2026, the political landscape is abuzz with ambitious infrastructure proposals. With the Awami League disbanded by interim government Chief Advisor Muhammad Yunus, three key parties—the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), Jamaat-e-Islami, and the National Citizen Party (NCP)—have released their manifestos, placing a strong emphasis on rail development, including bullet train corridors and modernization projects.
BNP's Vision for High-Speed Rail Connectivity
In its election manifesto, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) has outlined a comprehensive plan to revolutionize the country's rail network. The party promises to develop a bullet train system that would connect Dhaka with major regional cities, aiming to reduce travel times to under one hour. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to enhance intercity connectivity through express train services on key routes.
Key commitments from the BNP include:
- Electrification and double-track construction on critical corridors such as Dhaka–Chittagong, Dhaka–Narayanganj, and Dhaka–Mymensingh.
- Encouraging public-private partnerships in passenger and freight corridors, as well as urban rail systems, to boost infrastructure quality and service efficiency.
- Prioritizing regional connectivity by linking Myanmar-based routes and the Dhaka–Kunming rail link.
- Offering special concessions for students, persons with disabilities, and individuals over 60 years old across metro and long-distance rail services.
Jamaat-e-Islami's Focus on Railway Modernization
Jamaat-e-Islami has also centered its manifesto on rail infrastructure, promising to introduce a high-speed train network from Dhaka. The party aims to strengthen inter-city rail connectivity and introduce modern trains to significantly cut travel times. According to reports from Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Dr. Shafiqur Rahman announced on February 7, 2026, plans to upgrade the railway network to establish a bullet train system connecting Dhaka and Sylhet.
The party's manifesto states: "Railway Modernization: Inter-city rail connectivity will be strengthened. Modern trains will be introduced to ensure short travel time. Dhaka-centre passenger and high-speed train will be started."
NCP's Integrated Transport and Freight Initiatives
The National Citizen Party (NCP) has proposed an integrated public transport system between Dhaka and Chittagong, to be managed under a single authority. This move is designed to streamline operations and improve efficiency. Additionally, the NCP plans to increase freight train services to alleviate road congestion caused by trucks, thereby enhancing logistics and reducing environmental impact.
Overall, the manifestos highlight a unified focus on rail infrastructure as a cornerstone for Bangladesh's future development. With the election date set, these promises underscore the parties' commitment to transforming the nation's transportation landscape, potentially reshaping economic and social connectivity in the post-Awami League era.
