Disruption due to drone, overcrowding cause suffering to Metro passengers

Metro rail services in Dhaka faced significant disruptions today (12 April) after a drone fell on the track, forcing authorities to halt operations temporarily. 

The incident, coupled with overcrowding and inefficient service management, left hundreds of commuters stranded and frustrated.  

Samim, a private service employee from Mirpur, expressed his frustration over the lack of security personnel at the stations. 

He said, "I've missed two trains because people kept cutting in line and standing outside designated areas. There wasn't a single security officer managing the crowd, making it extremely difficult to board in an organised way."  

He also criticised the Rapid Pass recharge system, questioning why passengers must endure long queues instead of having digital payment options. "Why do I have to wait 20 to 30 minutes just to recharge my pass? There should be an app or online payment system."  

Another passenger from Mirpur-11 arrived at the station around 2pm only to find the gates closed, leaving hundreds unable to enter. Faced with the chaotic scene, the commuter eventually left and resorted to a bike ride to Moghbazar.  

Faruque Ahmed, managing director of Dhaka Mass Transit Company Ltd (DMTCL), confirmed that the metro rail service was suspended briefly after a drone was found on the track. 

"It took time to remove the drone and resume operations," he said.  

He also acknowledged the unusual passenger surge, stating that gates were temporarily closed at some stations to manage overcrowding and ensure safety. "We had to control the flow to accommodate passengers already inside and allow new ones to enter safely."