Dhaka: Ahead of the upcoming Eid-ul-Azha, Bangladesh Railway has announced the operation of 13 special trains to facilitate smooth travel for homebound passengers and cattle traders. This initiative includes 10 passenger trains and 3 dedicated cattle trains to accommodate the increased demand during the festive season.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the Director General of Bangladesh Railway, Md Afzal Hossain, stated that weekly off-days for all intercity trains have been suspended from May 23 until the day before Eid. This measure is part of a broader strategy to enhance travel efficiency and meet the higher ticket demand by adding additional coaches on various routes.
During a preparatory meeting held to discuss Eid-ul-Azha arrangements, it was disclosed that Chandpur Eid special-1 will depart from Chattogram at 3:30pm and reach Chandpur at 8:20pm. Conversely, Chandpur Eid special-2 will leave Chandpur at 4pm and arrive in Chattogram at 8:50am the following day, operating on the Chattogram-Chandpur-Chattogram route.
Further detailing the schedule, Teesta Eid special-3 will leave Dhaka at 9:30am and reach Dewanganj at 4:10pm. Meanwhile, Teesta Eid special-4 will depart Dewanganj at 4:30pm and arrive in Dhaka at 11:20pm, serving the Dhaka-Dewanganj-Dhaka route.
Additionally, Sholakia Eid special trains 5 and 6 will operate between Bhairab Bazar and Kishoreganj, while Sholakia Eid special trains 7 and 8 will run on the Mymensingh-Kishoreganj-Mymensingh route. These trains will only operate on Eid day, with potential extended service from May 30 to June 1 if Eid-ul-Azha is observed on May 28.
Parbatipur Eid special-9 and 10 will run on the Joydebpur-Parbatipur-Joydebpur route, with special services scheduled from May 24 to May 26 before Eid, and for three days following the holiday.
In a bid to support cattle traders during Eid, three special trains will operate for transporting sacrificial animals on the Dewanganj-Dhaka and Islampur-Dhaka routes. Railway authorities have also announced that all Eid tickets will be sold online, with each passenger allowed to purchase a maximum of four tickets per transaction. Notably, advance and return tickets will not be refundable.
To ensure a safe and smooth travel experience, authorities have pledged to bolster security at major railway stations, prevent ticket black marketing, curb roof-top travel, and operate mobile courts throughout the holiday period.
Source: Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha