Dhaka: The Police Headquarters today issued a comprehensive safety advisory aimed at ensuring the safe travel of passengers, bus owners, drivers, and operators of vessels, including launches and speedboats, as well as trains, during the upcoming Eid-ul-Fitr celebrations.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the advisory underscores the importance of adhering to safety protocols during the holiday travel period. Passengers are urged to plan their journeys with ample time and prioritize the safety of themselves and their families. The advisory strongly discourages urging drivers to speed and warns against the dangers of traveling on the roofs of buses or in goods-carrying vehicles.
The advisory also provides specific instructions for bus owners, emphasizing the need to employ competent drivers and ensure vehicles are roadworthy. Bus drivers are reminded to avoid speeding, risky overtaking, and driving while fatigued or unwell. They are also instructed to carry all necessary documentation, including a valid driving license, and to avoid picking up additional passengers.
For those traveling by water, the advisory highlights the risks associated with overloading vessels and traveling in adverse weather conditions. It mandates the wearing of life jackets on speedboats and advises against traveling on boat roofs. Vessel owners and operators are instructed to adhere to weather forecasts, maintain a sufficient number of life jackets and buoys, and ensure the operational readiness of all fire safety equipment.
Train passengers are advised against risky practices such as traveling on roofs or other non-passenger areas of the train. They are also reminded to safeguard their belongings and to ensure they have a valid ticket for travel.
The advisory concludes with contact information for various law enforcement agencies, including the Police Headquarters control room, Highway Police, Railway Police, Naval Police, and the Rapid Action Battalion, for assistance if necessary during the Eid travel period.