Railway urges not to setup cattle markets near tracks without prior approval

The Bangladesh Railway authorities urged all concerned to refrain from setting up cattle markets on or near railway tracks, land without prior approval ahead of Eid-ul-Azha.

In a letter sent to the deputy commissioners of districts where such temporary markets are likely to be set up, the Railways ministry requested necessary steps to prevent unauthorised use of railway property, according to a press release issued on Friday.

The letter said cattle markets are often set up adjacent to railway tracks or on railway-owned land without adequate safety measures.

This poses serious risks to public safety and train operations, potentially disrupting railway schedules during the Eid rush — an outcome the authorities emphasised must be avoided.

The districts identified as having a higher likelihood of such temporary cattle markets include Moulvibazar, Bogura, Dinajpur, Gopalganj, Faridpur, Rajbari, Kushtia and Chuadanga.

The letter further stated that the government is committed to protecting public property and ensuring safety.

It reiterated the government’s firm stance against unauthorised cattle markets on or near railway land.

It said if local circumstances necessitate setting up such markets near railway lines, several conditions must be strictly adhered to, said the release.

Prior approval from the railway authorities is mandatory, lessees managing the markets must erect strong fencing using bamboo or other suitable materials at a safe distance from the railway tracks and this fencing must be installed in a manner that ensures unhindered train movement and public safety.

Besides, local police and railway officials must coordinate under the supervision of the district administration to ensure safe train operations and the smooth movement of the public.