Sylhet, Oct 15 (V7N) – Repair work on the Chhatak-Sylhet railway line, severely damaged during the catastrophic 2022 floods, has officially commenced after being closed for four years. Local residents hope trains will soon resume service and the familiar whistle will echo again, though concerns remain over the slow pace of work. The community has urged authorities to complete the repairs within the designated timeline.
 
The railway line had already been suspended in 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the 2022 floods further damaged multiple sections of the tracks and sleepers. Since then, the route has remained non-operational, leaving stations abandoned and disrupting rail connectivity with Dhaka. Local businesses in Chhatak’s industrial area suffered significant financial losses due to the halt in transportation.
 
Rail authorities restarted repair work in February this year under a project budgeted at Tk 2.3 billion. The project includes rail line restoration, station modernization, and other infrastructure upgrades. However, the work has faced delays, prompting concerns from residents and local business owners.
 
“While we are glad the railway repairs have begun, the slow progress is worrying. If this pace continues, it could take several more years to complete,” said local businessman Robiul Islam.
 
The project is being executed by Mir Akhtar Hossain Limited, a Dhaka-based contractor. Officials report that despite temporary disruptions caused by rainfall, work is expected to accelerate and be completed by mid-2026. A railway executive engineer, Ahsan Habib, confirmed that contractors are being urged to maintain progress and assured that train services on the route will resume as scheduled. District Commissioner Mohammad Ilyas Mia added that the administration is monitoring the project closely to ensure quality and timely completion.
 
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