United News of Bangladesh

State Minister for Railways Habibur Rashid on Sunday said the government has a plan to modernise level crossings, introduce automatic signalling systems and constructing overpasses and underpasses across the country to to reduce railway accidents. The state minister made the remarks while talking to reporters after visiting the site of a deadly accident at Paduar Bazar Bishwaroad rail crossing in Cumilla that killed 12 people early Sunday. The government is assessing old and risky rail crossings nationwide to determine where overpasses or underpasses can be built to improve safety, he said. Besides, plans are underway to introduce automated systems at level crossings so that barriers will automatically come down once 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 problems to prevent future incidents, said the state minister. Two gatemen have already been suspended over alleged negligence in the Cumilla accident and authorities have also formed both divisional and zonal probe committees to investigate the accident 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. 12 killed as train hits bus in Cumilla Officials have been asked to submit the report within a week. On compensation, he said the families of each deceased victim will receive Tk 1,00,000 from the railway ministry, while the district administration has already announced Tk 25,000. Local administration also announced Tk 15,000 for those injured in the accident. 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 suffering of passengers. Agriculture Minister Mohammad Aminur Rashid was also present there.