Trains are a popular and safe means of transportation. When choosing a mode of travel, many people prefer trains. However, various irregularities occur during train travel, one of the most dangerous being rooftop travel.
Travelling on the roof of a train is extremely hazardous, unsafe, and illegal. Accidents resulting from rooftop travel can be fatal. Recently, five people riding on the roof of a train were killed after they fell off and were run over by the train in Raipura upazila of Narsingdi.
Additionally, trains are often delayed due to passengers travelling on the roofs, disrupting schedules and causing damage to valuable government property. The risk of accidents increases significantly with rooftop travel.
Some people travel on the roofs of trains as a hobby, to avoid buying tickets, or simply with the intention of travelling, whether they have a ticket or not. According to Section 129 of the Railway Act, anyone who endangers the life of a passenger through dangerous or reckless actions or negligence can be punished with imprisonment for up to one year, a fine, or both. Despite this law, many people continue to travel on train roofs, especially during festivals or on local trains.
We urge the administration and relevant authorities to take effective measures and enforce the law strictly to prevent rooftop travel on trains.
Aklima Akter
Student
Chittagong University
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