The government has launched separate coaches for female passengers on intercity trains to ensure safe and comfortable travel ahead of Eid-ul-Adha, Rail Minister Sheikh Rabiul Alam announced on Monday.
Initially, one coach each on the Sonar Bangla Express and Joyantika Express trains has been reserved exclusively for women, the minister said at the inauguration ceremony of a 25 per cent fare discount for elderly and physically disabled passengers at Farmgate Metro Rail Station.
“After Eid, there is a plan to gradually introduce this facility on every intercity train across the country,” he added.
Speaking at the event, the minister said the current government is working to make the public transport system humane, inclusive, and passenger-friendly.
Metro rail authorities said that from now on, citizens aged 65 years or above and persons with disabilities will receive a 25 per cent fare discount on single journey tickets. Elderly citizens can avail the facility by showing their National Identity Card, while persons with disabilities can use the “Suvarna” identity card issued by the Ministry of Social Welfare.
Bangladesh Railway said elderly passengers can purchase tickets at a 25 per cent discount both online and from counters. Age will be verified through National Identity Card information for online purchases. Service charges, VAT, and other charges will apply according to existing rules.
The existing 50 per cent fare discount for disabled passengers in Shuvon and Shovon Chair classes of intercity trains will remain unchanged. Additionally, a new 25 per cent discount has been introduced in all air-conditioned classes.
Railway authorities said the initiative will make the country’s public transport system more inclusive and passenger friendly.
