Women passengers will have access to dedicated coaches on every intercity train in Bangladesh on a phased basis following Eid-ul-Azha, Railway Minister Shaikh Rabiul Alam announced Monday.
Speaking after inaugurating a 25 percent fare discount programme for elderly and physically disabled passengers at the Farmgate Metro Rail Station, the minister said the initiative launched initially on the Sonar Bangla Express and Joyantika Express, would be gradually extended to all intercity trains across the country.
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"A dedicated coach exclusively for female passengers has been reserved on these two trains from today. After Eid, we plan to roll out this facility across all intercity trains in phases," he said.
The minister said the move was taken on the directive of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman ahead of the upcoming Eid-ul-Azha to ensure safe and comfortable travel for women, adding that the arrangement would eventually be made permanent.
Rabiul said the current government is working to make the public transport system more humane, inclusive and people-friendly, and is continuously introducing new measures to ensure social security and civic convenience.
Metro Rail, Railway Fare Discounts
The Dhaka Metro Rail authority said passengers aged 65 and above and persons with disabilities will receive a 25 percent discount on single-journey tickets, elderly riders upon showing their National Identity Card, and disabled passengers upon presenting the 'Subarna' identity card issued by the Ministry of Social Welfare.
Bangladesh Railway said elderly passengers can purchase discounted tickets both online and at counters, with age verification conducted through NID data for online purchases. Standard service charges, VAT and other applicable fees will remain in effect.
For persons with disabilities, the existing 50 percent fare concession on Sulav and Shovon classes of intercity trains will continue, while a new 25 percent discount has been introduced across all air-conditioned classes.
Officials believe the initiative will make the country's public transport system significantly more inclusive and passenger-friendly.