India and Bangladesh have in recent times stepped up their rail cooperation in mitigating the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic

In order to help Bangladesh effectively handle the increasing volume of passenger and freight train operations, India on Monday handed over 10 broad-gauge diesel locomotives to Dhaka.

The handing over ceremony was held by virtually flagging off locomotives to Bangladesh by External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Minister of Railways and Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal. The event was also attended by Minister of State for Railways, Suresh Angadi.

From the Bangladesh end, Minister of Railway, Nurul Islam Sujan and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Abul Kalam Abdul Momen received the locomotives.

Speaking on the occasion, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar highlighted the depth of time tested India-Bangladesh ties based on mutual trust and respect.

He expressed his happiness that the Covid-19 pandemic had not slowed down the pace of bilateral cooperation and conveyed that he looked forward to more such milestones in the ongoing historic Mujib Barsho.

Minister of Railways and Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal underscored the significance of railway cooperation in enhancing bilateral trade and connectivity and in further boosting the economic partnership between the two countries.

In recent times, India and Bangladesh have stepped up their rail cooperation in mitigating the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic, as trade via land border faced disruptions.

Rail as a cost effective and environmental friendly solution, has helped in transporting essential commodities across the border. Both sides saw the highest ever exchange of freight trains in the month of June. A total of 103 freight trains were utilized for carrying essential commodities and raw materials.

Recently, parcel and container train services have also commenced between India and Bangladesh. This is expected to significantly enhance the scope of bilateral trade, said the Ministry of External Affairs in a press note.