Cox’s Bazar’s iconic railway station, opened on 11 November 2023, still lacks most passenger services even after nearly one year and seven months.

The six-storey air-conditioned station was planned to have an information center, mosque, children’s play area, lounge, shopping mall, daycare, restaurants, hotel, and conference hall. None of these are in use. The entrance fountain is closed, and escalators are not working.

Passengers face trouble due to a narrow platform and no seating areas. Women with children and luggage suffer the most in the crowded space.

Despite finishing the structure, theft of electric wires and bulbs has been reported. Delays in commercial use are causing government losses.

Locals are frustrated. Only two train pairs run, though the area needs 10. No freight trains run, hurting salt, fish, and import transport from Teknaf, and reducing government revenue.

Railway officials said the Tk 18,034 crore Dohazari–Cox’s Bazar rail project began in July 2018, but the contractor hasn’t handed over the full station. The building alone cost Tk 236 crore.

Passengers now use a single narrow platform with just one toilet and no space for sitting, prayer, or food.

Station Manager Golam Rabbani said only a few rooms are used for train operations. Passenger services are yet to begin.

MSK/