ZCZC
BSS-22
PM-RAIL-CONNECTIVITY
Govt works to expand rail network across country: PM
DHAKA, May 27, 2021 (BSS) – Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina today said the government is working to expand rail communication networks across the country, especially in the areas having no railway.
Besides, the government has also restored the rail connectivity with neighboring India on different routes and planned to establish rail communication with Siliguri, she said.
The premier was addressing the foundation stone-laying ceremony of Madhukhali-Kamarkhali-Magura new rail track construction project and launching of a special mango train on Chapainawabganj-Dhaka route virtually from her official residence Ganabhaban.
Mentioning that Awami League (AL) government always gives priority to the development of the country and people’s fate, she said now it has undertaken a massive rail network expansion job with utmost importance.
“We will bring under rail connectivity the areas (districts) which do not have it yet so that people can easily move, do business and transport their products,” she said.
Sheikh Hasina said AL after assuming power after 21 years put concentration on the restoration and development of the country’s rail communication, as the then BNP government had ruined the sector taking the prescription of the World Bank.
She said her government installed railway track on Bangabandhu Bridge (over Jamuna River) to establish connectivity with the country’s northern parts that has eased communication of mass people and transportation of goods at low cost.
“We don’t run the government taking anyone’s advice, rather always work to upgrade the life and livelihood of people and develop the country,” she added.
The premier continued that they have established a separate ministry for railway to ensure the development of the sector alongside road, waterways and air connectivity.
Railways Minister Md Nurul Islam Sujan presided over the function from Magura end.
Prime Minister’s Principal Secretary Dr Ahmad Kaikaus conducted the ceremony at Ganabhaban while Railways Secretary Md Salim Reza delivered the welcome speech.
A video on the country’s rail service was screened at the ceremony.
More/MAK/GA/1521 hrs