Bangladesh train services resume after strike called off

Train operations in Bangladesh restarted on Wednesday after railway employees concluded their indefinite strike, which had paralyzed the nation’s rail system. The strike that started on Tuesday created major disturbances for commuters and businesses.

“Train operations nationwide are back to normal as the striking staff of Bangladesh Railway have called off their protest,” stated a Railway Ministry representative. The strike impacted approximately 400 passenger trains, which included over 100 inter-city services and more than 30 freight trains. Thousands of travelers were left stuck, forcing many to seek other transportation methods, resulting in increased fares because of the spike in demand for road travel.

Workers, such as drivers, ticket inspectors, and security personnel, had gone on strike to oppose a government ruling that eliminated pension benefits for overtime hours. “The government has guaranteed us that the benefits we previously received will stay intact,” Union leader Mujibur Rahman informed journalists.

Owing to a lack of personnel, numerous railway workers have for a long time been working beyond their allotted hours, usually receiving extra compensation and retirement benefits in exchange. Nonetheless, a contentious choice made in November 2021 eliminated these pension benefits, causing increasing worries among employees regarding their financial stability post-retirement.