Bangladesh Orders Mosquito Control and Service Upgrades at National Airports

Bangladesh's Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism has issued a directive for an immediate mosquito control drive and enhanced cleanliness standards at all airports across the country. The order, which also addresses a critical shortage of luggage trolleys at the nation's primary international gateway, aims to improve passenger comfort and safety.

The instructions were delivered by Civil Aviation and Tourism Minister Afroza Khanam during a review meeting for the 2025-26 fiscal year's Annual Development Programme (ADP). This move highlights a renewed government focus on rectifying long-standing operational deficiencies that have impacted the passenger experience, particularly at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (DAC) in Dhaka.

Ministerial Directives on Safety and Services

According to a press release from the ministry, Minister Khanam emphasized the need for urgent action to enhance the airport environment. She called for the immediate spraying of mosquito repellents in and around airport facilities and instructed officials to maintain strict hygiene protocols. The minister framed these measures as essential components of passenger comfort and safety.

Adding to the discussion on service quality, State Minister for Civil Aviation M Rashiduzzaman Millat highlighted a persistent shortage of luggage trolleys at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport. "The issue must be resolved urgently to improve service quality," Millat stated during the meeting. He specifically called for the procurement of 1,000 new trolleys to alleviate the problem.

The meeting was attended by key figures responsible for implementing these changes, including Secretary Nasreen Jahan and the Chairman of the Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (CAAB), Air Vice Marshal Md Mostafa Mahmud Siddique. The CAAB is the government body responsible for operating and maintaining the country's airports.

Dhaka's Recurring Trolley Crisis

The shortage of luggage trolleys at Dhaka's main airport is not a new issue. The airport currently has approximately 3,700 trolleys for both arrival and departure areas. However, passengers have recently reported waiting up to two hours to secure one, causing significant delays and frustration in the baggage claim hall.

This problem is often exacerbated during winter months when heavy fog leads to flight congestion. Airport authorities have previously suggested the crisis is more logistical than a simple numerical shortfall. When multiple delayed flights arrive simultaneously, the airport's infrastructure is strained. With only eight baggage belts available, processing the luggage for 13 to 15 flights arriving in a short period creates severe bottlenecks. This congestion slows down the baggage claim process and, consequently, the rate at which trolleys are returned to circulation for newly arriving passengers. The call for 1,000 additional trolleys aims to provide a buffer during these peak congestion periods.

Broader Development Goals

The directives on mosquito control and trolley procurement are part of a larger push to improve Bangladesh's aviation infrastructure, as outlined in the Annual Development Programme (ADP). The ADP is a yearly plan detailing development projects and their financial allocations. Both the minister and state minister urged all stakeholders to work in coordination to ensure passengers can travel without harassment.

Officials were also directed to complete all ongoing development projects within their stipulated deadlines. This underscores the government's intent to not only address immediate service failures but also to advance long-term strategic improvements across the nation's aviation sector. For more information on the governing bodies, see the official websites for the Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism and the Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh.

Why This Matters

This government intervention addresses foundational issues of public health and operational efficiency that directly impact passenger perception of Bangladesh's primary airports. By tackling visible problems like mosquito presence and trolley shortages, the ministry aims to improve the country's reputation as a travel and tourism destination. The move signals a commitment to elevating service standards to meet international expectations, which is critical for supporting economic growth and enhancing the nation's connectivity.

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