DHAKA: The government exchequer counted a loss of around Tk 50 crore in operating the top-heavy national airlines, as auditors found out superfluous manpower crowding the aviation company.  

Zakiul Islam, CEO of the national flag carrier, however, told banglanews24.com.bd that they have no additional employees. On the contrary, they are shorthanded. So they have reappointed a few retrenched workers on contractual basis in order to run the airlines smoothly.  

Asked to explain the recent government annual commercial audit report, he was reluctant to divulge more on the goings-on in the Biman Bangladesh Airlines Limited company.  

An audit objection was raised regarding the recruitment of the additional manpower, for which the airlines had to incur the financial losses.  

In response to the audit objection, Biman authorities sent a letter pointing out that they had to go for reappointment as functions in some posts, including transport operator, peon, traffic helper, cargo helper, aircraft cleaner and security guard, were insufficient for running the carrier smoothly.

According to a report submitted by a secretary-level committee on May 27, 2007 the national flag carrier was burdened with manpower far beyond the need.

As per its recommendation, out of 6,883 workers Biman shed 1,876 through voluntary retirement scheme (VRS) in July 2007—the caretaker era in state governance.

But, a few months after the VRS, Biman authorities retook 600 of the sacked workers for contract jobs.      

BDST: 1725 HRS, JULY 5,2010