Civil Aviation and Tourism Minister Afroza Khanam addressed the Rath Yatra of Lord Jagannath as the chief guest in Manikganj. Photo: Ministry

DHAKA, July 16, 2026 (BSS) – Civil Aviation and Tourism Minister Afroza Khanam today said the government has already implemented several initiatives to ensure hassle-free and quality air services for expatriate Bangladeshis as part of its efforts to modernise the country’s aviation sector.

“The government has taken a number of effective measures to develop the civil aviation and tourism sector into a modern, efficient and people-friendly sector. Several initiatives have already been implemented to ensure hassle-free and quality air services for expatriate Bangladeshis, and these efforts are continuing on a sustained basis,” she said.

The minister made the remarks while addressing the Rath Yatra of Lord Jagannath as the chief guest at the Sri Sri Anandamoyee Kalibari Temple premises in Manikganj this afternoon, said a press release here.

She said the government, under the leadership of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, is working relentlessly to build a discrimination-free, non-communal, peaceful and developed Bangladesh.

“Through the implementation of various development initiatives for the welfare of the people, efforts are continuing to make the country more prosperous and progressive,” she added.

Highlighting the government’s priorities in the aviation sector, Afroza Khanam said improving passenger services, particularly for overseas Bangladeshis, remains one of the ministry’s key objectives.

Greeting the Hindu community on the occasion of the Rath Yatra, the minister extended her congratulations to the devotees and expressed gratitude for their continued trust and support.

“It is because of your respect, love and trust that I am in this position today. I seek the cooperation of all of you in building a developed and safe Manikganj for both Hindus and Muslims. Please pray for me so that I can successfully fulfil the dreams of all of you,” she said.

Senior leaders of Manikganj district BNP, local dignitaries and a large number of Hindu devotees attended the programme.