Bangladesh's Chattogram Shah Amanat International Airport has launched a round-the-clock free ambulance service and subsidised baggage wrapping for expatriate workers, officials announced, as authorities move to improve facilities for migrants who account for the vast majority of the airport's passenger traffic.

Airport Director Group Captain Sheikh Abdullah Alamgir said the ambulance service, operational 24 hours a day, seven days a week, would transport sick or deceased migrant workers from the airport to their family homes—addressing a longstanding concern among a community that often returns under difficult circumstances.

Travellers holding a Wage Earners' Card will also be eligible for professional baggage wrapping at a subsidised rate of 100 taka (roughly $0.90), a fraction of the standard commercial cost.

On Monday, during a meeting chaired by ATM Mahbub-ul Karim, Director General of the Wage Earners' Welfare Board, officials emphasized that these initiatives are part of a broader strategy to honor the economic contributions of the expatriate community, who make up approximately 73 percent of the airport's total traffic. 

The airport has already introduced free Wi-Fi access, mobile charging stations, and a dedicated breastfeeding corner. Further upgrades are planned, including a new smoking area built to international standards, a boarding bridge, and an expanded waiting lounge fitted with 750 seats.

To address passenger safety concerns, authorities said they had increased surveillance and deployed mobile courts to deter harassment. Specialised help desks and ramp vehicles have been stationed in the apron area to assist elderly and vulnerable travellers, with support from non-governmental organisations including BRAC and the Shamsul Haque Foundation.

The Wage Earners' Welfare Board Director General said the agency stood ready to back airport authorities in delivering improved, modern services to migrant workers.

Source: BSS