PM Tarique Rahman Inquires After Stranded Passengers at Airport

Rtv News

Publish : 01 Mar 2026, 09:24 AM

Photo: Collected

Following the escalating military conflict between Iran, the United States, and Israel, the Middle East has been plunged into instability.

In response, the Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (CAAB) has suspended all Middle East-bound flights from Dhaka, leaving thousands of passengers stranded at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (HSIA).

The majority of those affected are expatriate workers and travelers booked on connecting flights to Europe and America.

Ministerial Visit and High-Level Oversight
On Saturday (February 28) at approximately 11:30 PM, the Minister for Expatriates' Welfare and Overseas Employment, Ariful Haque Choudhury, visited the airport to assess the situation.

During his visit, the Minister personally listened to the grievances of the stranded passengers and monitored the relief measures being implemented.

Direct Intervention by the Prime Minister
In the middle of a press briefing at the airport, Prime Minister Tarique Rahman placed a phone call to Minister Choudhury to inquire about the current conditions at the terminal and the extent of passenger suffering.

The Minister confirmed the call, noting the Prime Minister’s direct concern for the welfare of the citizens.

"We are currently stationed at Shahjalal International Airport along with the Senior Secretary and other top officials," Minister Choudhury informed the Prime Minister.

"Under our Ministry’s management, we have arranged accommodation for 50 passengers, while Civil Aviation has secured housing for an additional 800 people."

Emergency Logistics and Assistance
The Minister provided specific updates regarding a group of 53 passengers who had traveled from Sylhet to Dhaka for a flight to Muscat, Oman. Following the cancellation of their flight:

Passengers were transferred to hotels.
Provisions for Sehri (pre-dawn meal) were arranged.
An AC bus service has been organized to return them to Sylhet today, Sunday (March 1).

Regional Airspace Closure
The disruption began Saturday afternoon as multiple Middle Eastern countries closed their airspace due to the ongoing missile exchanges in the region.

With the situation remaining volatile, the resumption of flight operations remains uncertain, leaving thousands in a state of limbo.

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