Strike by holding passengers hostage unfortunate: Rail adviser

Muhammad Fouzul Kabir Khan, the Adviser to the Ministry of Railways, commented that it is unfortunate that the running staff of Bangladesh Railways are on strike, holding passengers hostage. He stated that the general public is suffering the most due to this situation.

He made these remarks during a visit to Dhaka Railway Station on Tuesday.

Fouzul Kabir mentioned that the doors for discussions regarding the staff's demands are always open. If necessary, further talks will be held with the staff, and their demands will also be discussed with the finance department.

He said that he has already informed the media to minimise the inconvenience to passengers. Still, if any passenger comes to the station, we have arranged for BRTC buses to ensure their convenience, so that passengers can travel on available train routes.

The railways adviser also addressed the staff's long-pending demand for a mileage allowance. He mentioned that many parts of their demands have already been fulfilled, and they are ready to continue discussions on the remaining issues. "The railway is not anyone's private property; there is always room for discussions here," he said.

He emphasised that while the railway closure does not cause inconvenience to the government, it severely affects general passengers. He urged for a quick resolution, especially with the Ijtema (religious gathering) approaching.

The meeting was attended by BRTC Chairman Tajul Islam, Railway Secretary Md Fahimul Islam, Railway Dhaka Division Manager Mohammad Mohiuddin Arif, and other senior railway officials.