Road Transport and Bridges and Railways Minister Shaikh Rabiul Alam said on Friday that adequate fuel supply would be ensured for public transport from March 15.
"The energy minister has assured that the price of fuel will not be increased, so there is no reason to hike public transport fares," he told the media after visiting Kamalapur Railway Station in the capital ahead of the upcoming Eid-ul-Fitr.
He said that Eid ticket sales started on March 3 and passengers were purchasing them online.
"Fuel prices will not be increased. Therefore, there is no risk of a fare hike in public transport due to fuel shortages," he maintained.
The minister also said the prime minister had instructed that railway services be made modern and user-friendly so that people can travel long distances comfortably in a shorter time.
"To achieve this, the government is working on comprehensive improvements in the railway system," he maintained. About facing the challenges of Eid travel, he said that within just two to three days, around 12 to 15 million people leave the capital.
He added that plans are underway to increase the country's transport capacity by adding new coaches, buses, and vessels.
At the same time, efforts are being made to bring order to the bus system. Regarding train schedule for Eid travel, the minister said that at least 85 to 87 locomotives are needed to avoid major schedule disruptions.
He said that currently, 78 locomotives have been deployed, and with a few more to be added in the next two days, the situation is expected to normalise further.
"Currently, about 124 coaches have been added. About 14 more coaches have been introduced on metre-gauge lines and about five pairs of special trains have been introduced on broad-gauge lines," he said.
About passenger safety and security, the minister said Bangladesh Railway has taken measures to ensure smooth journeys for the passengers.
He said that apart from the railway police, regular police, highway police, naval police, and other law enforcement agencies are working together to ensure a safe Eid journey.
He added that the administration is ready to quickly address such situations like unexpected accidents or temporary disruptions that may occur during the Eid journey.
He urged passengers to remain patient and cooperate with the authorities concerned during any crisis.
State Minister for Road Transport and Bridges and Railways Habibur Rashid Habib and other officials were present.
talhabinhabib@yahoo.com
