Bangladesh Rail Strike Disrupts Travel and Freight Nationwide

Train services across Bangladesh were suspended Tuesday, disrupting travel and freight operations nationwide as railway workers launched an indefinite strike for higher pensions and benefits. This was reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Rail Strike Brings Bangladesh Travel and Freight to a Standstill

Bangladesh’s rail network came to a halt Tuesday, leaving passengers stranded and freight delayed. Railway workers demand better pensions and benefits amid growing economic uncertainty in the country.

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Saidur Rahman, president of the Bangladesh Railway Running Staff and Workers Union, stated that the strike followed failed negotiations with the interim government led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus. Talks broke down late Monday, prompting workers to take immediate action.

Nationwide Disruptions Leave Passengers and Businesses Struggling

Bangladesh’s railway system serves over 65 million passengers annually and supports essential freight services. The strike has paralyzed this critical infrastructure, impacting everyday life and key industries.

Hundreds of passengers gathered at Dhaka’s Kamlapur Railway Station, unaware of the strike until arrival. Authorities arranged alternative bus services, but many travelers refused to switch, citing discomfort.

Shahadat Hossain, the station manager, confirmed that 10 trains scheduled for Tuesday morning were canceled. Passengers, including Mohammed Nadim, expressed frustration at being stranded. “I came for a train journey, not a bus ride,” Nadim said.

Economic Consequences for Bangladesh as Strikes Persist

In Chattogram, protests erupted among railway workers, threatening disruptions to the garment industry. This sector earns over $38 billion annually from exports to the U.S. and EU markets. Delayed shipments could impact international trade.

Meanwhile, in Rajshahi, angry passengers vandalized railway stations and attacked staff. Local media reported growing unrest as economic pressure mounts, deepening the crisis nationwide.

Government Faces Mounting Pressure Amid Growing Tensions

The interim government, led by Muhammad Yunus, has struggled to restore order since taking office in August. Political uncertainty, combined with slowing economic growth, has created additional challenges for the administration.

The strike has no immediate resolution in sight, raising concerns over prolonged economic disruptions. As workers demand higher pensions, the government faces pressure to act swiftly or risk further instability.

Source: www.arabnews.com

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