Bangladesh Railway has closed 20 unauthorized and high-risk level crossings along the Dhaka–Sylhet rail route passing through four upazilas of Habiganj district. The move aims to reduce frequent accidents and fatalities caused by unprotected crossings lacking safety infrastructure or signalmen. Railway officials confirmed that the closures are part of a phased plan to eliminate all 46 unauthorized crossings in the district. According to the railway’s engineering division, the first phase targeted the most accident-prone points, with the remaining 26 crossings to be closed gradually. Many of these crossings were locally built without approval, posing serious safety hazards for both trains and pedestrians. However, local residents have expressed frustration, saying the closures were implemented without prior notice or alternative routes. Residents and local leaders are urging authorities to construct overpasses or underpasses before closing crossings to prevent public hardship. Officials maintain that the closures are necessary to ensure passenger safety and reduce the risk of future train collisions.