Adequate fuel supply to be ensured for public transport from March 15: Rabiul

Road Transport and Bridges Minister Shaikh Rabiul Alam today said adequate fuel supply will be ensured for public transport from March 15.

Rabiul, also the railways and shipping minister, made the remark while talking to reporters after visiting Kamalapur Railway Station in Dhaka ahead of Eid-ul-Fitr.

The transport minister said the energy minister has assured that the price of fuel will not be increased, so there is no reason to hike public transport fares.

Regarding online advance train tickets, Rabiul said ticket sales started on March 3 and passengers have been purchasing them online.

He said that although about 37 lakh people attempted to buy tickets online, only about 36,000 tickets could be sold, considering the railway's capacity.

He said after booking a ticket, passengers are given five to 15 minutes to complete the payment. Due to this, tickets often remain reserved temporarily and others have to wait.

The minister said additional coaches and special trains have been added to ensure smooth Eid journey.

“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 security, Rabiul said 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.

Stating that some unexpected accidents or temporary disruptions may occur during the Eid journey, he said the administration is ready to quickly address such situations.

He urged passengers to remain patient and cooperate with the authorities concerned during any crisis.