Awami League general secretary and Road Transport and Bridges Minister Obaidul Quader yesterday asked the officials and employees of Bangladesh Road Transport Corporation (BRTC) to ensure transparency for making it a profitable corporation.

“Ensure transparency in BRTC to make it as a profitable organisation,” the minister urged BRTC officials while addressing a view-exchange meeting with them at corporation’s Motijheel headquarters in the capital. Without specifying any irregularity, the minister asked the BRTC officials to refrain from corruption, saying the corporation does not need any corrupt official.

 “You have to make arrangements to drive vehicles by skilled driver, not by a helper. . . You have to remain alert while recruiting any driver,” he added.

Referring to the dream of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina about a modern BRTC, Quader said,” She normally oversees the overall situation and you (BRTC officials) have to give the organisation a modern look.”The minister also issued a warning saying, “Actions will be taken if any BRTC staff is found involved in any sort of corruption.”

No culprits would go unpunished, he said, adding wrong-doers will not only face any disciplinary actions, but also legal actions.

Bangladesh has purchased 600 buses and 500 trucks from Indian companies under line of credit of Indian government this year.

About media reports over buying faulty vehicles, Quader asked the BRTC chairman to investigate the purchase of “defective” buses.