Despite earning profits, Bangladesh Railway has handed over the operation of Betna Express train, running on the Benapole–Khulna–Mongla route, to the private sector, triggering dissatisfaction among the passengers in the southwestern region. H&M Trading Corporation, a private company, has assumed responsibility for the train’s commercial and ticket management since January 11, 2026. Railway sources said that Bangladesh Railway issued a tender on April 22, 2025 to lease ticket management for the route. Benapole Railway Stationmaster Aynal Hasan said that train fares would remain unchanged despite the shift to private management. Implementation was delayed due to budgetary and administrative issues, he said, adding that the train has been operating under private ticket management since Sunday.

Source: Dhaka Tribune January 17, 2026 19:12 UTC