Govt dismisses train schedule disruption during Eid rush

Railways Minister Shaikh Rabiul Alam on Sunday said there is no fear of any major disruption to train schedules during the Eid-ul-Azha rush despite the mounting pressure of homebound passengers.

“Passenger demand for train travel rises sharply during Eid as many people prefer rail journeys to travel outside Dhaka. However, the number of trains and carrying capacity remain inadequate compared to the demand,” he told reporters while visiting Kamalapur Railway Station in the capital.

The minister said railway authorities are operating services with maximum caution using the existing old railway tracks and locomotives.

He said around 32,000 passengers usually travel daily on intercity trains from Dhaka, but with the issuance of 25% additional Eid tickets, the number has increased to nearly 40,000 passengers per day.

“However, the actual Eid demand exceeds one lakh passengers,” he added.

Sharing his experience from the surprise inspection, Rabiul said he boarded two trains without prior notice and spoke directly with passengers, who expressed satisfaction over the services.

“The condition of the trains and platforms also appeared satisfactory to me,” he said.

The minister said train journeys are being operated within seating capacity despite the issuance of additional tickets considering the huge Eid rush.

He also claimed railway services and overall management have improved compared to previous years, while the online ticketing system has significantly reduced ticket black marketing.

He further said 51 additional coaches have been added to different routes for Eid travel, while around 82 to 83 metre-gauge locomotives are currently operational.

More locomotives will be added soon to further minimise schedule disruptions, the minister added.