Government moves to declare metro rail an essential service to prevent vandalism
Metro rail resumed operations after a 37 day suspension
The interim government is taking steps to declare metro rail an essential service in order to prevent acts of vandalism, said Muhammad Fouzul Kabir Khan, adviser to the Ministry of Road Transport and Bridges.
This morning (25 August), after the metro rail resumed operations, Muhammad Fouzul Kabir Khan traveled from Agargaon to the Secretariat Station.
Speaking at a press conference at the Metro Rail Secretariat station, he mentioned that the government plans to classify the metro rail as a Key Point Installation (KPI), enhancing its security.
"We are working to upgrade metro rail to a KPI to ensure it is not vandalised. Our initiative to declare it an essential service will increase its protection, preventing any disruptions to the service," said the adviser.
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When asked about measures against those responsible for recent vandalism attempts, he stated, "The incidents were connected to a mass movement, so the initial cases have been withdrawn. However, we all know those fighting for the country's change couldn't have done this. It was the work of miscreants, and we have videos and footage. We will take appropriate action."
The metro rail station was vandalised during the anti-quota movement, causing a 37-day suspension of the service.
"You know this is a government of popular expectations. After I was appointed as an adviser, the honourable chief adviser told me that my first task would be to reopen the metro rail, and that is what we have done. We had to reconstitute the board, hold meetings, and address certain demands," the adviser added.
The adviser also noted that previously, the government had planned to restart the metro rail on 17 August, but internal issues prevented it from happening.
"Some officials tried to hold the service hostage, which is not a good sign. We need to address these problems responsibly," adviser mentioned.
Commenting on the current situation, the adviser said, "It's the season of demands across the country right now. Everyone wants their demands to be met. They want an end to discrimination, they want freedom from deprivation. After 16 years of neglect... it's only been 16 days for this government, so give us at least 16 months. We will gradually address all these issues."
Regarding the demands and challenges the government is facing, Fouzul Kabir Khan commented, "Meeting all these demands has financial implications. If government revenue doesn't increase, where will the money come from? Printing more money will only lead to inflation and further hardship for the people."
When asked about the launch of other metro lines, he replied, "We have been in discussions with the Japanese implementers of the metro rail. We are working to open other lines as soon as possible. Later today, the Japanese ambassador will meet with me to discuss how we can expedite the opening of stations like Kazi Para and Mirpur 10."
