Ticket syndicates being tackled to ensure fair airfare: Minister Afroza

The government is taking steps to dismantle airline ticket syndicates to help restore discipline in the aviation sector and ensure expatriate Bangladeshis can buy air tickets at fair prices, said Civil Aviation and Tourism Minister Afroza Khanam on Saturday.

“The government is also introducing special airfare discounts for expatriate Bangladeshis, alongside discounted accommodation at Bangladesh Tourism Corporation hotels,” she told reporters in Manikganj after attending programmes marking the ninth death anniversary of former minister Harunar Rashid Khan Monnoo, reads a ministry press release.

“We are working to curb ticket syndicates and protect the interests of expatriates,” the minister said, adding that restoring order in the aviation sector remains one of the ministry’s key priorities.

Earlier in the day, Afroza paid tribute by laying wreaths at her father’s grave at Monnoo City in Manikganj.

Following prayers at the gravesite, she inaugurated the construction of a 10-storey building at Monnoo Medical College, planted saplings on the college campus, and presented special awards to physicians at Monnoo Medical College Hospital in recognition of their contributions to healthcare.

Addressing the gathering, Afroza described her father as an uncompromising believer in nationalist ideals and said she remained committed to serving the people of Manikganj by following his principles.

Harunar Rashid Khan Monnoo, a former minister, industrialist and political leader, died on 1 August 2017. According to the organisers, he is remembered for his contributions to industrial development, public service and leadership.