Bus, train connectivity high on Khaleda-Manmohan summit

Dhaka, Mar 17: Multi-modal transport connectivity between Bangladesh and India is likely to figure prominently among other important bilateral issues during Prime Minister Khaleda Zia's visit to New Delhi beginning on March 20.

Official sources here said that the new route of passenger bus service and train communication would come up for discussion during the official talks between the two Prime Ministers on March 21.

The sources said that Dhaka might consider a proposal on a new passenger bus route -- Dhaka-Sylhet-Shilong-Guwahati.

Besides, a passenger train service between Sealdah station in Kolkata and Gazipur in Bangladesh might also be considered during the official talks.

Around five lakh people travel between India and Bangladesh annually for medical treatment, education and tourism.

India has long been pressing for more bus and train connectivity between the two countries.

In exchange, the sources said Bangladesh would seek transit facilities for direct trade with Nepal.

The first direct bus service between Dhaka and Kolkata was inaugurated here on June 19, 1999 by then Indian Prime Minister Atal Behari Vajpayee and former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.

The second bus service between Dhaka and Agartala was inaugurated here on September 19, 2003 by Communications Minister Barrister Nazmul Huda and Indian Union Minister for Road and Transport BC Khanduri.

UNI