Newly appointed Road Transport and Bridges Minister Sheikh Rabiul Alam has stated that he does not view the collection of funds by transport-related organisations as extortion, if the money is gathered based on mutual understanding.
He, however, clarified that if anyone is compelled or forced to pay, it will then be considered extortion. The minister made these remarks while responding to questions from journalists during a press briefing held at his office in the Secretariat on Thursday afternoon.
Rabiul Alam noted that the funds often discussed as “extortion” in the transport sector are not always so.
He explained that owners’ associations and workers’ unions collect money at fixed rates to conduct their welfare activities, describing the practice as an “unwritten rule.” “It can only be defined as actual extortion if someone is forced to pay against their will,” he added.
He further mentioned that owners’ associations are expected to spend the collected funds on the welfare of owners.
While acknowledging that there may be debates regarding the transparency of how these funds are utilised, he maintained that there is little scope to label the process as extortion if it operates on the basis of consensus.
Rabiul also admitted that labour organisations supported by the ruling party generally exert more influence in such collections. Nevertheless, he reiterated that fund collection through mutual understanding does not directly constitute extortion.
He explicitly stated that there is no opportunity for external pressure to be applied for extortion or to gain undue advantages at facilities under the Ministry of Communication.
The minister also assured that he would hold discussions with relevant stakeholders if reports arise regarding anyone being deprived or if there is any misuse of the collected funds.
Regarding traffic congestion on roads, the Minister identified that unauthorised markets sitting on highways are causing significant bottlenecks in many areas. He emphasised that it is essential to bring these matters under strict discipline.
Addressing the upcoming Eid journey for home-bound citizens, the Minister remarked that managing the pressure of travellers becomes difficult if the holiday duration is short.
He noted that a longer holiday period last year provided some relief, and a similar approach is being considered for the current year. Efforts are also underway to determine new measures to reduce the suffering of passengers.
Rabiul Alam expressed his optimism that the government will be able to ensure that passengers reach home safely during Eid. He concluded by stating that the timeframe of the holidays is a crucial factor and that further details regarding this will be announced within a few days.
