Locals staged a human chain and protest at Shahjibazar Railway Station under Madhabpur upazila of Habiganj, demanding modernization, renovation, and improved passenger safety at the long-neglected station.

The programme, held at the station premises in the afternoon, was attended by people from various professions and backgrounds.

During the protest, the Dhaka–Sylhet bound Jayantika Express (717 up and 718 down) trains were reportedly stopped for around 10 minutes each.

Railway Police later intervened, brought the situation under control, and restored normal train operations.

Sub-Inspector Md. Abdul Kadir of Shaistaganj Railway Police Station said, “With the assistance of our team, train movement was normalized during the incident.

Protesters alleged that Shahzibazar Railway Station has long remained in a neglected condition. They claimed that modernization work initiated in April last year remained incomplete, further deteriorating the situation. They also raised concerns over a non-functional signal system and weak administrative and security arrangements at the station.

A booking assistant Md Sharif at Shahzibazar market alleged frequent theft incidents at the station. “There is no signal system, and the station’s operations are in a very fragile state,” he said.

Locals further claimed that the station master, Md. Mofazzal Hossain, currently assigned in an additional capacity, is often absent, disrupting passenger services and causing severe inconvenience to commuters.

Speaking on condition, Md. Mofazzal Hossain said he visits the station only once a month for ticket-related duties. He added that most systems are non-functional, including the signal system and loop line, forcing trains to stop on the main line. He also alleged that 28 batteries and other important equipment were stolen, and cases have been filed in connection with the incident. Following the situation, two appointed station masters were reportedly transferred to Rashidpur and Longla stations.

Speakers at the protest also highlighted overcrowding on the Jayantika Express, short stoppage times, and the risks faced by patients, children, and elderly passengers while boarding and alighting trains stopped on the main line.

Under banners including “Shahzibazar United Football Club” and others, locals demanded immediate station renovation, increased ticket availability, safe platform-based train stoppages, strengthened security, and stoppage extensions for trains such as the Parabat or Kalni Express.

The protesters warned that stricter programmes would be announced if their demands are not met soon.