Rajshahi: Amusement spots, especially along the banks of the Padma River, are bustling with a huge onrush of people of all ages as residents of Rajshahi continue to celebrate Eid, braving the heat and sultry weather. Despite the city wearing a deserted look with no traffic jams due to Eid holidays, city dwellers have been visiting relatives and friends to exchange pleasantries and greetings.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the main feature of this year’s Eid festival is the peaceful environment, thanks to tight and multi-scale security measures involving various law enforcement agencies. Stable market conditions, with fair and tolerable prices of essential commodities during Ramadan followed by a peaceful Eid shopping spree, have rejuvenated people to enjoy the holidays in a festive mood.
Ataul Gani, visiting the Padma riverbank, mentioned that he added two extra days to his Eid holidays to spend time with family, which he usually can’t do due to his job at a private organization. Despite it being the fourth day of Eid, he noted the continuous onrush of people and expressed his joy at spending time at the scenic site.
Bipul Hossain, a resident of the Upashar area, usually lives in Dhaka for work. He came to Rajshahi to celebrate Eid, visiting tourist spots with his family since Eid day. “Children are deriving joy enormously,” Hossain said, enjoying Eid with family at Shimla Park near Shishu Academy.
Meanwhile, heavy traffic congestion is reported on roads near amusement spots as people continue to roam to mark the Eid festival, causing difficulties for rickshaw-pullers, passengers, and pedestrians. Government employee Arman Hossain, celebrating Eid in Rajshahi, has spent most leisure time in amusement centers. However, he complained about rickshaw and auto-rickshaw drivers charging extra fares during Eid.
Rickshaw driver Saiful Islam admitted to charging extra, citing the limited opportunity to earn more during Eid. Despite this, people are seen enjoying Eid with family, relatives, and friends, overlooking the hurdles and constraints.
The elongated bank of the Padma River, along with its ‘T’ and ‘I’ groins, has become a popular tourist center. Many are enjoying boat rides on the river, particularly in the afternoon and evening, as engine-driven local boats traverse the waters, creating waves.
People dressed in new attire were seen frequently visiting parks and places of interest, with a renewed sense of security and safety following strict measures by law enforcement agencies. Thousands, especially children, flocked to the city’s parks, historic sites, and other recreational centers to enjoy and celebrate the festival.
Central Park and Zoo, Zia Shishu Park, Varendra Research Museum, BGB Amusement Point, Vadra Park, Padma Garden, and Borokuthi amusement point have drawn huge crowds. The Central Park and Zoo, the largest amusement spot in Rajshahi metropolis, has been revitalized with development and beautification works and an expanded collection of animals.
The Padma River bank near the Saheb Bazar area has also become an attractive tourist and recreational spot. Nargish Akhter, a visitor, expressed her enjoyment of the park’s atmosphere, noting the absence of panic and anxiety.