In a momentous occasion for the career of Train Master Robiul Islam, on Tuesday marked a historic day as he took the helm of the locomotive that traversed the Padma Bridge with Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on board. Robiul Islam, holding the LM Grade-1 Train Master position at the Bangladesh Railway Division, shared his profound emotions during this unforgettable journey of a lifetime.
"I never imagined that I would become the inaugural driver on the Dhaka-Mawa-Bhanga rail route," remarked Robiul, his voice filled with genuine astonishment. "This is an extraordinary day for me, sharing the railway with the honourable prime minister. Words can hardly convey the immense pride and joy I feel today."
The train, capable of reaching speeds of up to 120 km/h on this route, targeted a speed of 50 km/h for yesterday’s journey. The journey from Dhaka Kamalapur Station to Bhanga was expected to take approximately 50 minutes.
To ensure smooth operation, an additional engine was deployed to assist the Mawa-Bhanga train. Speaking about the security and safety measures in place for the rail route, Robiul Islam said: "The Railway Ministry has provided ample manpower and police protection to safeguard this route. However, it's imperative that the general public also understand their responsibilities in maintaining its security."
Assisting Robiul Islam during the historic journey was his co-driver, Abul Kashem, along with three assistant drivers. Additionally, two more drivers were stationed in the auxiliary engine, ensuring a seamless journey for the prime minister and other passengers.
The grand inauguration of the railway line from Mawa to the section of the Padma Bridge marked its completion today. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina arrived at the Sudhi Assembly ground in Mawa promptly at 11:58 AM, commencing the day's events.
The train arrived at Bhanga station at precisely 1:55 PM, and Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina disembarked at 1:59 PM, preparing to participate in a political rally organized by the Faridpur District Awami League at 2:00 PM.
