Railway Minister Shaikh Rabiul Alam on Tuesday announced a 25 percent fare concession for persons with disabilities, students and citizens aged above 65 on metro rail and all other railway services.

“It may take some time for the concession to come into effect,” said the minister while talking to reporters at Secretariat.

When asked whether freedom fighters would receive the same benefit, he said the issue was not discussed.

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Regarding online ticketing, the minister said the discount option will be available in the system.

Passengers aged 65 and above will have to show their national ID card to avail 25 percent concession and they will also need to present ID during onboard checks, he said.

Students must show valid student ID cards while persons with disabilities will need to display the government-issued disability card.

Replying to another question, the minister said the government is working for the overall development of the railway sector including improving service quality and increasing train speeds to ensure shorter travel times.

The minister said efforts are underway to operate 85 to 86 locomotives during Eid to maintain schedules and handle additional passenger pressure.

“If we can operate that number of locomotives it will be possible to maintain schedules and carry extra passengers. There will be no scope for schedule disruption,” he added.

The Minister also said there will be no opportunity to charge excess fares during Eid travel.

He said meetings were held with bus and launch owners’ associations who pledged not to raise fares.

 “We are keeping them under monitoring and this will be enforced at any cost,” he said, expressing hope that Eid travel will be comfortable with everyone’s cooperation.