State Minister for Railways Habibur Rashid has said the government plans to modernise level crossings, introduce automatic signalling systems and construct overpasses and underpasses across the country to reduce railway accidents.
The state minister made the remarks while speaking to reporters on Sunday after visiting the site of a deadly accident at Paduar Bazar Bishwaroad rail crossing in Cumilla that killed 12 people early in the morning.
The government is assessing old and risky rail crossings nationwide to identify locations where overpasses or underpasses can be built to improve safety, he said.
Plans are also underway to introduce automated systems at level crossings so barriers will automatically lower when a train enters a designated distance, reducing the risk of human error, he added.
Highlighting concerns over safety management, the minister noted that many old rail gates lack proper supervision and gatemen, which often leads to accidents. The government is prioritising these issues to prevent future incidents, he said.
Two gatemen have been suspended over alleged negligence in the Cumilla accident, and authorities have formed both divisional and zonal probe committees to investigate the incident, including whether there was any lapse on the part of the station master, he said.
Responding to questions about accountability, the minister expressed hope that the investigation report would be made public and those responsible would face action. Officials have been asked to submit the report within a week.
On compensation, he said families of each deceased victim will receive Tk 100,000 from the railway ministry, while the district administration has announced Tk 25,000. Local administration also announced Tk 15,000 for those injured.
Addressing delays in rescue operations following rail accidents, the minister said the government plans to procure four additional relief trains to ensure faster response and reduce passenger suffering.
Agriculture Minister Mohammad Aminur Rashid was also present.
ChatroKontho/Nabil