Train fares are increasing

Bangladesh Railways has decided to withdraw the existing distance-based discount facility in all types of passenger trains. As a result, the train fare is going to increase from May 4.

This information was informed in a circular of Bangladesh Railway on Monday (April 22).

It is said in the notification regarding the withdrawal of the concession given to passenger transport of Bangladesh Railway, it is being informed for public information that in 1992, distance-based and section-wise concessions were given in Bangladesh Railway. In 2012, the ‘Sectional Rebate’ was abolished but the distance based Rebate remains in force. Recently, Bangladesh Railways has decided to withdraw only the existing distance-based concession without increasing fares on passenger trains. In view of this, the decision to withdraw the existing distance-based concession in all types of passenger trains will be implemented from May 4.

Regarding the issue, Director General of Bangladesh Railway Sardar Shahadat Ali said that the train fare will be adjusted by withdrawing the concession from May 4.

According to the responsible sources of Railways, a passenger gets concessional tax benefit of 20 per cent for 101-150 km, 25 per cent for 151-400 km and 30 per cent for more than 400 km. This is being cancelled.

Sources also said that if a passenger travels more than 100 km by train from May 4, he will have to pay more fare. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has approved this proposal of the railways. Which was supposed to be effective from 1st of this month.

On March 16, Director General of Bangladesh Railway Sardar Shahadat Ali said that the railway fare is increasing. At that time, after the rumor of increase in fares, Railway Minister Md. Zillul Hakim told the media that there is no plan to increase railway fares.

MHN/SM