Published : 09 Mar 2025, 11:31 PM
Road Transport Advisor Muhammad Fouzul Kabir Khan has outlined several measures aimed at easing the travel experience for homebound passengers during the Eid-ul-Fitr holiday.
He said there would be no "excessive restrictions" on motorcycle movement on the highways.
Speaking to the journalists following a meeting with relevant authorities at the Bidyut Bhaban in Dhaka on Sunday, Fouzul assured the public that the government would work to ensure a smoother Eid journey.
Traffic jams are a familiar sight on highways during Eid travel, often causing severe inconvenience to passengers due to additional fare demands and long delays.
In light of this, the advisor said the interim administration would regulate motorcycles and three-wheelers, locally known as Nosimon and Korimon, on the highways to reduce travel hardships.
“However, in special circumstances, people may travel on motorcycles if they wear helmets,” he added.
Fouzul confirmed that motorcycles and three-wheelers would be restricted from the main roads, and strict enforcement would ensure that both riders and passengers wear helmets.
Violators will face penalties through mobile courts.
"Since many can travel home easily by motorcycle, there will be no strict restrictions here," he said.
He highlighted the discussions from the meeting.
Fouzul said road repairs would be completed before the 15th of Ramadan.
CCTV cameras would be installed at key Dhaka bus terminals, including Gulistan, Fulbaria, Mohakhali, Sayedabad, and Gabtoli, to monitor passenger safety and prevent harassment.
He added, "A committee has been formed with the [Bangladesh Road Transport Authority] and the city corporation in place.
“Transport owners have assured us that tickets will not be sold on the black market.”
The advisor continued, "Deputy commissioners have been asked to remove markets from highways during Eid.
“The speed limit on the Padma Bridge will be increased from 60kph to 80kph to avoid traffic congestion.
"The number of Highway Police and traffic police will be increased as well.”
He confirmed that commuter train services would begin operating on the Dhaka-Narsingdi and Dhaka-Narayanganj routes from Mar 26.
As part of broader Eid preparations, hospitals would be integrated with police control rooms to enable swift responses to emergencies.