Abu Jakir :
As millions of holidaymakers prepare to return to their hometowns for Eid-ul-Fitr, the government has implemented extensive measures to ensure a smooth and comfortable journey.
Under the leadership of interim administration head Professor Muhammad Yunus, 340 operation teams have been deployed across 3,900 kilometres of national highways, with a promise to address commuter issues within 15 minutes through a dedicated highway police hotline.
Bangladesh Railway has introduced several initiatives to guarantee safe and comfortable travel. Security at major railway stations, including Dhaka’s Kamalapur and Joydebpur in Gazipur, has been tightened.
Additional security forces, including police, RAB, APBn, Ansar, and fire service personnel, have been mobilised to maintain order during the peak travel season.
CCTV surveillance will operate continuously, and medical teams will be stationed at Kamalapur and Dhaka Airport railway stations to provide emergency assistance.
According to Mohammad Shafiqul Islam, the Dhaka Divisional Commandant of the Railway Security Force, 200 additional Ansar personnel will support the existing 490-member security force.
Railway Police will implement a three-tier security system at Kamalapur, with both uniformed and plainclothes officers ensuring safety at key hubs.
Government offices observed their final working day before Eid yesterday, as employees prepare for an extended nine-day holiday starting today.
The official Eid-ul-Fitr holiday is from March 29 to April 2, with an executive order extending it until April 3.
Offices will reopen on April 6, following the weekend break on April 4 and 5. Eid-ul-Fitr will be celebrated on either March 31 or April 1, depending on the moon sighting.
The Bangladesh Road Transport Authority (BRTA) has vowed to enforce strict measures against unfit vehicles and fare violations.
BRTA Director Mohammad Shahidullah confirmed that vigilance teams have been deployed across all 64 districts to ensure compliance with transport regulations.
Highway Police DIG (Operations) Md. Shafiqul Islam revealed that 1,443 individuals involved in highway robberies have been identified, with operations underway to apprehend them.
He advised travellers, particularly expatriates carrying luggage, to seek assistance from highway police for additional security.
Private transport operators have also taken proactive measures to ease the travel experience.
Tarif Ul Islam, Deputy General Manager of S.R. Travels, explained that the announcement of a nine-day holiday has reduced travel congestion compared to previous years.
“City dwellers began their holiday journeys a week before Eid, allowing for a more evenly distributed travel schedule.
As a result, passengers will be able to reach their destinations comfortably and without undue pressure,” he said.
With coordinated efforts from government agencies and private transport operators, this year’s Eid travel is expected to be better organised and less stressful, ensuring a safe and festive homecoming for millions.
