Dhaka: Road Transport and Bridges, Railways and Shipping Minister Sheikh Rabiul Alam announced today that the government has adopted 26 measures to ensure safe, smooth, and comfortable travel for passengers journeying home during the upcoming Eid-ul-Fitr celebrations. The minister emphasized that coordinated efforts across road, rail, and waterways, alongside stringent monitoring by relevant agencies, will contribute to a more comfortable Eid travel experience.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the minister addressed a press conference in the shipping ministry’s conference room at the secretariat, detailing the overall management and security arrangements for Eid travel. Sheikh Rabiul Alam highlighted that new measures have been implemented this year, building on the successful travel management of last year’s Eid.
The minister stated that these decisions were based on recommendations from all stakeholders. Special monitoring efforts will be in place from five days before Eid-ul-Fitr to five days after, ensuring smooth transit. He also emphasized that any form of passenger harassment or misconduct, particularly at Sadarghat terminal, will not be tolerated.
To alleviate traffic congestion on roads leading to Sadarghat, Sheikh Rabiul Alam noted that city corporations and traffic police will undertake special duties, with a focus on removing illegal parking and roadside encroachments. The Coast Guard and river police will maintain constant vigilance to regulate speedboat movements and prevent random parking of vessels on waterways.
Addressing fare regulations, the minister issued a strict warning against overcharging during Eid travel. Mobile courts will be operational to enforce regulations, and transport owners and workers have pledged not to hike fares. Additionally, the minister highlighted efforts to manage traffic and holidays within the readymade garment sector, urging factories without urgent export orders to grant leave to workers in advance to reduce road pressure.
In response to queries about extortion in the transport sector, Sheikh Rabiul Alam stated that a zero-tolerance policy is in place against illegal toll collection. Immediate action will be taken upon receiving specific allegations, reinforcing the government’s commitment to ensuring safety and accountability on roads and waterways during the Eid period.