Passengers won't face corruption, theft, long queues for luggage at airport: Afroza
State Minister M Roshiduzzaman Millat, who also took office today, reiterated the commitments made in the new government’s manifesto
Newly appointed Minister for Civil Aviation and Tourism Afroza Khanam Rita and State Minister M Rashiduzzaman Millat formally assumed office today (18 February), pledging to strengthen governance, end corruption and improve passenger services at the nation's airports.
The pair were welcomed at the ministry by Secretary Nasreen Jahan and senior officials before holding an introductory meeting with ministry personnel, focusing on ongoing activities and future priorities.
At the event, the minister said the government is committed to working closely with officials to make the ministry's operations more dynamic and effective in serving public interests. She underscored the importance of good governance, transparency and accountability across the sector.
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Speaking to the media after assuming office, State Minister Millat outlined an ambitious reform agenda aimed at eliminating corruption and enhancing airport services, particularly for expatriate travellers. He said the government plans to dismantle ticketing syndicates, improve baggage handling and reduce the long waits for luggage after landing.
"We have heard that Biman flights sometimes fly with empty seats while passengers are shown online that tickets are sold out. We will eradicate such syndicates and ensure transparency in ticketing," the state minister said.
Addressing widespread complaints of luggage delays and theft, the minister assured that strict measures would be taken to prevent corruption and ensure accountability.
"Migrant workers will not face any corruption at the airport. No theft will take place from luggage. We are working to reduce baggage delivery time so that passengers can receive their luggage by the time they complete immigration formalities and reach the conveyor belt area," he added.
In addition to aviation reforms, he highlighted long-term plans to strengthen the country's tourism sector. "We will focus on tourism development alongside aviation reforms. We have comprehensive long-term plans to boost tourism and improve overall service standards," he further mentioned.
Secretary of the Ministry Nasreen Jahan and Md Mostafa Mahmood Siddiq, chairman of the Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh, were present during the state minister's media briefing.
