Kolkata: Notwithstanding efforts by Indian and Bangladesh authorities to launch the Kolkata-Dhaka train service from April 14, its inaugural run may be deferred if a request by the West Bengal government is considered.

With the panchayat elections in the state scheduled in May, the West Bengal government wants the train service not to be launched between April seven and May 21, fearing that going ahead with the programme may violate the election code of conduct.

The matter was discussed during a meeting at the state secretariat yesterday among Eastern Railway General Manager N K Goel, state Chief Secretary A K Deb and Home Secretary A M Chakraborty, railway sources said.

"It appears that the government does not want the inauguration to be held between April seven to May 21. This figured in the meeting, but no decision has yet been taken," the sources said.

Panchayat elections in West Bengal are conducted under the aegis of the State Election Commission.

Railway Minister Lalu Prasad has already announced in Parliament that the Moitree Express would run from April 14, coinciding with Pahela Baisakh the first day of the Bengali New Year.

Bangladeshi Communication ministry officials, however, said the date would be announced officially after a supplementary deal between the railway officials of the two countries, expected to be signed during three-day bilateral talks in Dhaka from April one.
Source : PTI