Constant delay on Sylhet-Dhaka, Ctg train routes

Train schedules for Sylhet-Dhaka and Sylhet-Chattogram routes have become irregular, reportedly due to foggy weather and loco masters resting for longer periods.   

Almost all inter-city trains are failing to maintain schedule, making passengers suffer.

According to Sylhet Railway Station’s schedule report for yesterday, Dhaka-bound Kalni Express left the station at 7:30am when it was supposed to depart at 6:40am. Jayantika Express left 20 minutes after the scheduled time (8:40am), and Chattogram-bound Paharika Express left at 10:25am, delaying for 10 minutes.

The mentioned trains were late to leave the station on Sunday as well.

Due to the delays, passengers are having to wait at the station for a long time, and they are late to reach their destinations.

Afsar Uddin, station master of Sylhet Railway Station, said, “After the train collision in Brahmanbaria on November 12, the department is on high alert, and it ordered loco masters to get sufficient rest.”

“All loco masters are now resting for at least eight hours before leaving the station, and that is causing the delay,” he said.

Some other railway officials claimed the railroad that connects Dhaka and Chattogram to Sylhet is vulnerable and many rail-bridges are dangerous to traverse. Loco masters are bound to maintain slow speed at these points, and as a result, they are arriving late.

Denying claims of Sylhet’s railway authorities, Bangladesh Railway Chief Operating Superintendent (East) Md Nazmul Islam said, “It’s the foggy weather that’s causing the delay, not because of loco masters resting more or the railroad’s condition.”

He said, “Rail lines are constantly being repaired as they must be maintained at all times.”

Earlier on November 12, a collision between Turna Nishita Express and Udayan Express killed 18 passengers, making everyone question railway safety measures.