Ministry Warns of Strict Penalties for Railway Sabotage

The Ministry of Railways has issued a stern warning to the public, declaring that any attempts to damage railway infrastructure under the guise of political, social, or personal agendas will be met with the full force of the law. In an official statement released on Monday, the government underscored that the destruction of state assets is a serious criminal offence, and perpetrators will face rigorous legal consequences under existing statutes.

The directive, disseminated by the Ministry’s Public Relations Officer, Rezaul Karim Siddiqui, expressed profound concern over a recent spike in “unwanted incidents.” These include the dangerous practice of stone-throwing at moving trains, the irrational blockade of tracks during protests, and deliberate acts of sabotage intended to derail or damage rolling stock. Such actions not only jeopardise the lives of thousands of commuters but also inflict substantial financial burdens on the national exchequer.

According to the Ministry, these disruptions have led to significant passenger suffering and have tarnished the institutional reputation of Bangladesh Railway. The Ministry emphasised that as a state-owned entity, the railway is a “national treasure.” Consequently, any financial loss incurred due to vandalism is a direct loss to the general public. The statement reminded citizens that protecting this infrastructure is a “sacred duty” for every member of society, urging a collective sense of responsibility to ensure the smooth operation of the network.

Summary of Targeted Offences and Legal Implications

The Ministry of Railways reaffirmed its commitment to providing high-quality services to the public. However, officials noted that ensuring a safe and efficient transport system is impossible without the active cooperation of the citizenry. The communiqué concluded by calling upon all social and political organisations to refrain from targeting the railway during demonstrations, reminding them that the railway remains the most affordable and vital lifeline for the nation’s economy.