‘Strict action if transport fares rise during Eid’
Staff Correspondent, N’ganj :
Minister for Road Transport and Bridges, Railways, and Shipping, Sheikh Rabiul Alam, has said that this year’s Eid travel will be comfortable and safe.
Locations where disruptions are likely have already been identified and necessary instructions have been issued. Compared to previous years, all relevant authorities will be more proactive to ensure smooth Eid travel.
He said a clear message has been delivered to the transport sector that no fares will be increased. If anyone attempts to raise fares on public transport, strict action will be taken against them. Any specific allegations of extortion will be treated as criminal offenses and addressed accordingly.
The minister made these remarks while speaking to journalists on Saturday (February 28) during his visit to Narayanganj Terminal, the under-construction Khanpur ICT and Bulk Terminal, the dredger base, and the planned terminal building at the fish landing station area of Narayanganj river port, funded by the World Bank.
He further stated that he wants to ensure everything proceeds smoothly this Eid. Advance preparations have been taken to avoid traffic congestion on the Dhaka-ylhet and Dhaka-Chattogram highways. Traffic Police, River Police, Coast Guard, and other agencies will remain vigilant.
Regarding allegations of extortion, the minister said swift action will be taken in coordination with the relevant ministries. He also assured that the long-stalled Narayanganj double-line railway project will be expedited.
Minister Sheikh Rabiul Alam also commented that there are attempts to create an artificial shortage in the market by holding essential goods on lighter vessels.
During an on-site inspection, wheat was found on a lighter vessel. He instructed that legal action be taken against those responsible for failing to unload goods within the scheduled time.
Addressing pollution in the Shitalakkhya River, the minister said the matter will be communicated to the Ministry of Environment. “We also have responsibilities from our side. We will identify the necessary measures and take appropriate steps as quickly as possible,” he added.
Among those present were State Minister Habibur Rashid, BIWTA Narayanganj Joint Director Mostafizur Rahman, Additional Deputy Commissioner Alamgir Hossain, Additional Superintendent of Police Hasinuzzaman, and other officials at various levels.
