Poor maintenance of level crossings and railway bridges by the authorities, among other issues, contributed to the rise in rail accidents that claimed 209 lives across the country in the last six months, says a report of a journalists’ platform.

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina yesterday directed the authorities to conduct a survey on railway bridges and culverts across the country and repair those damaged or risky.

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina yesterday said Bangladesh wanted to cooperate with India and other neighbouring countries for creating a “peace area” in South Asia where everyone would live together as good neighbours and pursue constructive policies for the benefit of all.