Families of Cumilla crash victims to receive Tk 1 lakh each: State minister

State Minister for Railways Habibur Rashid said the families of each deceased in the Cumilla rail accident will receive Tk 1,00,000 from the railway ministry, while the district administration has already announced Tk 25,000.

The local administration also declared Tk 15,000 for those injured.

Twelve people were killed early today when a train hit a bus at Paduar Bazar Bishwaroad rail crossing in Cumilla.

Speaking to reporters after visiting the site, the state minister said the government has a plan to modernise level crossings, introduce automatic signalling systems across the country to reduce railway accidents.

He said old and risky rail crossings nationwide are being assessed to determine where overpasses or underpasses can be built.

Automated systems are also planned so barriers will come down once a train enters a designated distance, reducing human error.

Highlighting safety concerns, Habibur noted that many old rail gates lack proper supervision and gatemen, often leading to accidents. He said that the government is prioritising these problems to prevent future incidents.

Two gatemen have already been suspended over alleged negligence in the Cumilla accident.

Authorities have formed both divisional and zonal probe committees to investigate, including whether there was any lapse on the part of the station master. Officials have been asked to submit the report within a week.

On accountability, Habibur said the investigation report would be made public, and those responsible would face action.

He also said the government plans to procure four additional relief trains to ensure faster rescue operations and reduce passenger suffering.

Agriculture Minister Mohammad Aminur Rashid was also present during the visit.