Dhaka: Railway Adviser Muhammad Fouzul Kabir Khan today urged the railway authorities to refrain from adopting unnecessary and costly projects to prevent additional spending. The adviser made these remarks during a view exchange meeting at Rail Bhaban, focused on reviewing rail operations and activities during Eid-ul-Fitr and preparing for a smooth passenger journey for the upcoming Eid-ul-Azha.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the adviser noted the shortage of railway locomotives and coaches and mentioned the government’s efforts to procure adequate engines and coaches. He highlighted an ongoing project aimed at collecting 200 coaches, which is expected to be completed promptly. Additionally, he mentioned plans to convert the existing Parbatipur Central Locomotive Workshop for assembling and repairing purposes.
Fouzul Kabir instructed the relevant authorities to draft new projects swiftly and emphasized the importance of completing these projects within one to two years. He stated that any extensions of time or increases in expenses would not be tolerated in the future.
The adviser also directed the railway’s online ticketing agency, Shohoz.com, to be more vigilant in preventing ticket scalping. He indicated that the railway authority might reconsider its contract with the agency if it fails to implement effective measures against scalpers. Furthermore, he expressed the need for the railway authority to have its intelligence team to identify individuals who block tickets using social media networks.
Fouzul Kabir expressed satisfaction with this year’s peaceful and smooth Eid journey and thanked all those involved. He encouraged railway authorities to maintain this year’s success in the future and to work diligently to increase revenue while avoiding unnecessary expenses.
The view exchange meeting was chaired by Secretary to the Railway Ministry Md Fahimul Islam and attended by Director General of Bangladesh Railway Afzal Hossain and other senior officers.