Starlink’s devices stolen from trains

The initiative to provide uninterrupted internet service to train passengers has run into a major security challenge just six months after its launch, with Wi-Fi routers, Starlink antennas and other equipment reportedly stolen from trains where the service was introduced on a trial basis.

Bangladesh Railway launched the experimental Starlink internet service in four intercity trains operating under its Eastern and Western zones in March this year. However, several pieces of equipment installed on the trains have been stolen before the trial period could even be completed, raising questions about the security arrangements for the pilot project and preparedness for any future expansion of the service.

Railway authorities say a shortage of manpower is making it difficult to ensure adequate security for valu able technological equipment installed on moving trains. Maintaining round-the-clock surveillance over equipment installed in different coaches is particularly challenging, they said.

The incidents, however, have also raised questions about whether adequate security measures were considered before costly technological equipment was installed as part of the pilot initiative.

According to railway sources, the Starlink-based service was introduced experimentally on four intercity trains with the aim of providing passengers with internet connectivity during their journeys. The initiative was also seen as part of Bangladesh Railway's broader effort to modernise passenger services through technology.

But within a few months of the launch, equipment related to the internet service began disappearing from different trains. The stolen items reportedly include Wi-Fi routers, Starlink antennas and other devices essential for establishing and maintaining internet connectivity.

The thefts have caused not only financial losses but also raised concerns about the continuity and effectiveness of the experimental service.

Railway officials said securing technological equipment on moving trains is considerably more difficult than protecting equipment installed at fixed locations such as railway stations or buildings. Regular inspection of equipment installed in different coaches and monitoring their condition require additional personnel, they said.

Dhaka Divisional Railway Manager A B M Kamruzzaman said Bangladesh Railway was facing a manpower shortage, making it difficult to ensure the security of many valuable assets.
He described the theft of internet equipment from trains as a “deliberate act”.

The issue of manpower, however, is only one aspect of the security challenge. Given the relatively small size of the equipment and the fact that some devices can potentially be removed from their installations, railway authorities may also need to consider additional technological safeguards.

Dr Muhammad Imadur Rahman, Chief Executive Officer of Bangladesh Satellite Company Limited, said the experience gained from the pilot initiative should be taken into account before implementing any larger-scale project.

He said the limitations and problems identified during the experimental phase should be properly assessed and incorporated into the planning of the next stage.

Experts and people familiar with the initiative said ensuring internet connectivity alone would not be enough to make the service sustainable. Equipment security, regular maintenance, monitoring and mechanisms for quickly detecting theft or tampering should also be incorporated into the project design.

They said equipment that can be easily removed should be installed in a way that makes unauthorised removal difficult. Assigning dedicated personnel to monitor equipment on each train could also help improve security.

Location tracking, regular inspections and alarm systems could further reduce the risk of theft, they said. Railway security personnel and relevant staff should also receive training on the equipment and the procedures to follow in the event of damage or theft.

Raising awareness among passengers could also play a role in protecting the equipment. Any damage to or theft of technology installed with public funds ultimately affects passenger services and may increase the financial burden on the state.

A reliable internet service on intercity trains could significantly improve communication and access to digital services for long-distance passengers. It could also contribute to the modernisation of Bangladesh Railway.

But the theft of valuable equipment during the pilot phase has exposed a critical weakness that needs to be addressed before the service is expanded.

The key challenge now is whether Bangladesh Railway can overcome not only its manpower shortage but also the technological and operational gaps in securing equipment on moving trains. The lessons learned from the pilot phase will be crucial in determining whether the service can be implemented on a larger scale in a secure and sustainable manner.