DMTCL Expands Safety Measures for Metro Rail System

The importance of metro rail is growing among commuters, students and people from different professions as it allows them to avoid traffic congestion and reach their destinations comfortably. However, concerns about metro rail safety and risks have recently spread on social media. The Dhaka Mass Transit Company Limited (DMTCL) says it is taking steps to improve passenger services while ensuring the safety and structural stability of the system. The metro rail’s operating hours at night have already been extended based on passenger demand. Since June 7, train services in both directions have been extended by 20 minutes. Two additional trains have increased daily passenger capacity by around 10,000, according to officials.

Two more trains may be added by the end of August, which is expected to reduce the waiting time between late-night trains from about 20 minutes to around 7–8 minutes. DMTCL Managing Director Shaogat-ul Alam said the immediate and long-term measures aim to ensure safe, comfortable and uninterrupted travel. DMTCL said the measures are being taken based on recommendations from the Safety Audit Committee. Ten steel brackets have been installed on pillars 423, 442, 446 and 448, while a new bearing pad has been installed on pillar 448. Five more bearing pads from DMTCL’s stock are being installed, and procurement is underway for another 22.