The government of Bangladesh has announced a 25 per cent fare concession for persons with disabilities, students and citizens aged 65 and above on metro rail and all railway services, Railway Minister Shaikh Rabiul Alam said on Tuesday.
The minister informed reporters at the Secretariat that the discount policy has been approved in principle, though its implementation may take some time as system adjustments are required.
He clarified that the possibility of extending the benefit to freedom fighters was not discussed during the meeting.
Regarding operational arrangements, he said the concession will be integrated into the online ticketing system to allow eligible passengers to avail discounts during booking.
Passengers aged 65 and above will be required to present their national identity cards both while purchasing tickets and during onboard verification. Students must show valid student identification cards, while persons with disabilities will need to provide government-issued disability cards to qualify for the reduced fare.
The minister also highlighted ongoing efforts to improve railway services, including plans to operate 85 to 86 locomotives during the upcoming Eid season to accommodate increased passenger demand and prevent schedule disruptions.
He assured that there would be no scope for charging excessive fares during the festive period.
Authorities have held meetings with bus and launch operators, who have pledged not to raise ticket prices.
Monitoring mechanisms will remain in place to ensure compliance, and the government expects smooth and affordable travel for passengers with enhanced service coordination during peak demand periods.
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