Railway accidents at level crossings continue to claim lives across Bangladesh, with an average of three deaths reported daily, according to railway police data. The problem worsens during Eid travel, when unprotected and illegal crossings become deadly traps. Of more than 3,000 crossings nationwide, fewer than half have gatekeepers, leaving most routes dangerously exposed. Railway records show that 89 percent of fatalities occur at unguarded crossings, with the Dhaka–Chattogram–Cumilla corridor identified as the most hazardous.

Official figures indicate that since 2014, 868 railway accidents have killed 111 people, though experts believe the actual toll is higher. In the eastern region alone, over half of legal crossings lack gatekeepers, while the western region faces similar shortages. The Chattogram–Cox’s Bazar route remains particularly unsafe, with 56 of 72 gates unprotected. Despite multiple investigations and recommendations for automatic alarms, little improvement has been achieved.

Experts urge immediate measures, including sealing illegal crossings, improving gatekeeper pay and conditions, deploying special task forces during Eid, and installing automated warning systems. Long-term solutions such as underpasses and strict legal action against illegal crossings are also recommended.