Dreams shattered under train wheels

Chittagong University student Rabiul Alam under treatment at CMCH. Photo: STAR

Twenty-six year old Md Rabiul Alam had promised his parents that better days will come.

His parents believed that Rabiul will change their fate and give them a better life. But an accident in Sholoshahar Railway Station in Chittagong shattered those dreams. 

A postgraduate student of sociology department at Chittagong University, Rabiul lost both his legs as a shuttle train ran over him yesterday.

While speaking about her hopes and aspirations about her son, Rabiul's mother Fatema Begum said he wanted to take all responsibilities of the family after completing his masters.

The six-member family which lives in Teknaf, survives by farming on others' land.

“Rabiul managed his tuition fees and daily expenses through private tuitions in the city,” his mother said.

"When all our dreams were about to come true, this tragedy happened…," the sobbing mother said. 

The accident took place at 8:15am as Rabiul slipped and fell on the rail track. He was taken to Chittagong Medical College Hospital by locals.

CU Assistant Proctor Pranab Chowdhury said the operation was successful but doctors could not save his legs.

“He is out of danger now but it will take time to recover”, he added.

His treatment will take a heavy toll on the family, Mohammed Hosen, a farmer from his village said.

The university authority said they will bear all his treatment expenses till his recovery.