Starlink Satellite Internet Launched on Trial in Moving Trains

For the first time, Bangladesh Satellite Company Limited has experimentally launched high-speed satellite-based Starlink internet service directly on moving trains. The free Wi-Fi service has been introduced on a trial basis on several popular and VIP intercity trains in the country since Friday, 13 March.

Initially, passengers are receiving the facility on three trains—Parjatan Express, Upaban Express, and Bonolota Express.

On Saturday, 14 March, BSCL Public Relations Officer Umar Haider said the connection had been introduced on a trial basis in the railway system under the direct instructions of Adviser for the Ministry of Posts, Telecommunications and Information Technology and the Ministry of Science and Technology, Rehan Asif Asad. He observed the trial operations in two phases on Wednesday. Bangladesh Railway is assisting in the initiative. Passengers can now use Starlink Wi-Fi internet inside the trains.

The initiative is part of the government’s broader plan to introduce free Wi-Fi services at all airports and railway stations in the country, in line with the Prime Minister’s directive.

Earlier, Minister of Posts, Telecommunications and Information Technology Fakir Mahbub Anam had announced that free Wi-Fi facilities would be introduced at all airports and railway stations across the country following the Prime Minister’s instructions.

Under the direct guidance of Adviser Rehan Asif Asad of the Ministry of Posts, Telecommunications and Information Technology and the Ministry of Science and Technology, BSCL conducted the experimental monitoring of Starlink operations in the railway system. The adviser carried out two rounds of inspections on Wednesday.

During the visit, Adviser Rehan Asif Asad said the government is undertaking various initiatives to enhance connectivity across the country. As part of that effort, the Starlink internet service has been introduced on moving trains. From now on, passengers will be able to access the internet easily by scanning a QR code. For now, the service has been launched on a trial basis, and he also provided necessary directives for further improvements in the future.

Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of BSCL, Imadur Rahman, said that in line with the government’s manifesto, BSCL is working to improve the country’s digital connectivity. The introduction of Starlink internet on moving trains will provide passengers with enhanced services and make railway travel more modern and convenient.

Railway authorities said that if the trial proves successful, Starlink-based internet services will gradually be introduced permanently on other non-stop and high-demand intercity trains across the country. This will allow passengers to carry out freelancing, online classes, or office work conveniently while traveling by train.

DBTech/NA/EK/OR