Biman suspends two officials over delay in Zamzam water delivery

Biman Bangladesh Airlines has temporarily suspended two officials and launched departmental proceedings against them over delays in delivering Zamzam water to Umrah pilgrims returning from Saudi Arabia.

The action followed a delay involving Biman flight BG 338, which arrived in Dhaka from Medina at 9:10am on Thursday (October 1).

Passengers had to wait significantly longer than usual to receive their Zamzam water.

According to Biman, negligence in unloading the containers carrying Zamzam water and subsequent handling procedures prevented them from reaching the baggage belt on time.

The suspended officials are baggage in-charge Monirul Islam Prodhan and flight supervisor Saddam Hossain. Biman said departmental action was also being taken over alleged negligence in performing their duties.

To reduce passengers’ waiting time, Biman initially distributed Zamzam water from its own reserve. The remaining water was handed over to passengers after another container was located.

Several MPs travelling on the flight had earlier submitted a written complaint to Biman’s managing director, alleging that they had still not received their tagged Zamzam water three hours after landing in Dhaka.

Biman said it has strengthened internal monitoring to prevent similar incidents and ensure timely and quality services for passengers.