‘Call migrant workers Sir to show respect’

Civil Aviation and Tourism Minister Afroza Khanam Rita today directed officials and staff of the Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (CAAB) to ensure migrant worker-friendly services at airports and adopt a zero-tolerance policy against irregularities.

Speaking at a views-exchange meeting with CAAB officials at its headquarters in Dhaka's Kurmitola, she stressed the need to bring positive changes in service delivery and behaviour towards Bangladeshis working overseas.

"Our brothers and sisters working overseas must not face any hardship. We have to show them the highest respect and sincerity," she said.

The minister said the ministry would conduct surprise inspections to ensure service standards.

State Minister M Rashiduzzaman Millat said a culture should be developed in which migrant workers are addressed as "sir" to show respect.

He also instructed authorities to maintain overall cleanliness at airports, strengthen monitoring mechanisms, and ensure that officials perform their duties properly.

Highlighting safety concerns, he said maximum vigilance must be exercised to prevent any future fire incidents or security risks.

The minister and state minister visited the third terminal of Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport, and sought cooperation from all concerned to open the terminal for public use at the earliest.

They also inspected the fire-damaged cargo village and import cargo terminal and observed the current situation.

While speaking to staff on duty at the airport lounge, the minister said improving the quality of services for passengers arriving from abroad is now a demand of the time.

Many expatriates face difficulties at the airport due to a lack of understanding about various procedures, she said.

Among others, Civil Aviation and Tourism Secretary Nasreen Jahan and CAAB Chairman Air Vice Marshal Mostafa Mahmud Siddiq were present at the event.