Metro Rail Halted on Agargaon–Motijheel Section After Fatal Accident

Metrorail train

Dhaka’s metro rail operations on the Agargaon–Motijheel route have been suspended indefinitely following the collapse of a bearing pad that killed a pedestrian, officials confirmed on Sunday.

Dhaka Mass Transit Company Limited (DMTCL) Managing Director Faruque Ahmed said the service cannot resume until replacement equipment arrives. “Under the current situation, it is not possible to restart operations along this section,” he said while visiting the accident site at Farmgate. “For now, trains will operate only between Diabari and Agargaon, and services there will resume within two to three hours.”

Earlier, DMTCL announced on its official Facebook page that the metro service had been suspended due to “technical and mechanical faults” and apologised to passengers for the inconvenience.

Road Transport and Bridges Advisor Fouzul Kabir Khan, who also visited the site, said the damaged section could not be reopened immediately due to safety concerns. “It’s risky. If another accident occurs, who will take responsibility?” he asked.

A five-member committee led by Bridges Division Secretary Mohammad Abdur Rouf has been formed to investigate the incident and submit a report within two weeks. The team will also review reports from previous similar accidents to identify any recurring lapses.

Fouzul said the metro rail authorities will provide Tk 500,000 in compensation to the victim’s family. “If an able-bodied family member applies, they will be offered a job in the metro rail. I will also visit the injured at the hospital and ensure proper treatment,” he added.