2,000 level crossings unauthorised: Railways Minister

Railways Minister Md Nurul Islam Sujan today said about 2,000 level crossings out of 3,200 across the country are unauthorised.

"Permission is needed from the Railways to construct roads over rail lines. But many roads are built without approval," he said at a press briefing at the Rail Bhaban.

He noted that the unauthorised crossings lack safety measures. Minister Sujan held the Local Government and the Roads and Highways Department responsible for the roads.

"We're blamed whenever accidents take place at these unauthorised crossings," he said. "We'll identify these unauthorised crossings and ensure security there."

Ten members of a bridal party, including the bridegroom and bride, were killed on July 15 after a train hit a microbus at an unmanned level crossing in Sirajganj.

Minister Sujan said the ministry will serve notices to the authorities concerned who constructed roads without authorisation of the railways.