Online Desk: As the Eid-ul-Azha draws nearer, thousands of people are making their way to bus, launchand railway stations in Dhaka to travel to their ancestral homes. The exodus of home-goers, eager to celebrate the festival with their loved ones, has already begun to create congestion and pressure at various transportation hubs. Earlier on Monday, transit stations like Gabtali, Sayedabad, Mohakhali bus stands, Kamalapur railway station, and Sadar Ghat launch terminal witnessed a manageable flow of passengers.
However, as the day progressed, there was a noticeable increase in both passenger numbers and vehicular traffic. It is expected that this pressure will further intensify in the coming days. Authorities are putting in place measures to ensure the safety and comfort of the passengers. Dhaka District Superintendent of Police (SP), Asaduzzaman, announced that law enforcement officers would be on the roads around the clock to facilitate smooth travel. He also assured that no additional fare would be charged from passengers, urging them to report any such cases.
However, with the surge in home-goers and vehicles, severe traffic congestion around these terminals has already begun to affect commuters. To maintain law and order, a considerable number of law enforcement personnel, including detective police and RAB, have been deployed at bus and launch terminals as well as along the highways. There are also concerns regarding the safety of travelers. Many holidaymakers were spotted risking their lives by crossing the Padma and Bangabandhu Bridges on motorcycles with family members. Observers noted that private cars were outnumbering passenger buses on the highways.
To avoid the rush, some residents have sent their family members, including women and children, to their native homes in advance. Travelers at Sayedabad and Gabtoli Bus Terminals on Monday were eager to begin their journey as ticket counters were crowded and buses filled to capacity. Holidays have been declared from June 27 to June 30 for Eid-ul-Azha.
Moreover, the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Chowdhury Abdullah al Mamun, stated that senior police officers and other law enforcement units will work around the clock to ensure a smooth and comfortable journey for the public. He mentioned the successful management of Eid travel during the last Eid-ul-Fitr and said preparations had been made to replicate that success.
Units including Metropolitan Police, Highway Police, Tourist Police, District Police, Railway Police, RAB, Armed Police Battalion, Naval Police, and Industrial Police are collaborating for this purpose. IGP Chowdhury urged passengers to report any issues to the nearest police station or by calling the helpline at 999. He emphasized the resolution of complaints swiftly and requested passengers not to travel as extra passengers on buses, trains, or water transport for safety reasons. As the nation gears up to celebrate Eid-ul-Azha, the combined efforts of the travelers and the authorities will be vital in ensuring a safe and joyful festival.