New passenger train between Khulna, Kolkata launched

A new passenger service between Khulna and Kolkata and a goods train between Radhikapur and Birol stations were flagged off today by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Bangladesh counterpart Sheikh Hasina here through video link.
Strengthening India-Bangladesh ties in rail sector, the Maitree Express, that runs between Dhaka and Kolkata, will be made fully air-conditioned from April 14 on the occasion of Poila Baisakh, the Bengali New Year.
Maitree Express will be equipped with improved coaches comprising four first-class AC coaches and as many AC chair cars.
The introduction of a new passenger train service from Khulna to Kolkata through Petrapole from the Indian side and Benapole from the Bangladesh side is expected to boost travel between the two neighbouring countries.

Indian Railways has earmarked Rs 10 crore for the development of Petrapole station.
A new rail link between Radhikapur and Birol was made operational for running goods trains.