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As the holy Eid-ul-Adha holidays draw to a close, working people and citizens from various walks of life have started returning to the capital Dhaka. However, compared to other years, the rush during the return journey is less this time, resulting in fewer inconveniences for passengers on road, rail, and waterways.
Since Sunday morning (May 31), a noticeable presence of Dhaka-bound passengers has been observed at Gabtoli, Mohakhali, and Sayedabad bus terminals, Kamalapur railway station, and Sadarghat launch terminal. However, no excessive crowd or chaos has been reported anywhere. Transportation remained normal.
Particularly, passengers have begun returning to Dhaka by launch from various southern districts. Conversations with passengers arriving at Sadarghat revealed that the river journey was comfortable. Launches had passengers, but without excessive crowding, no inconvenience was faced. Most launches arrived in the capital on schedule.
Similarly, the number of passengers on buses departing from various districts including Mymensingh, Jamalpur, Sherpur, Kishoreganj, and Gazipur was normal. Passengers were able to alight from buses and reach their destinations easily. With less passenger pressure, no complaints of extra fare collection were reported.
Transport officials stated that due to the long holiday, not everyone is returning to the capital simultaneously. Many are returning in phases, distributing the passenger pressure over several days. This has eased transportation management and reduced inconvenience.
Conversely, many people who could not go home during Eid are now heading towards their villages with their families. Consequently, both Dhaka-bound and village-bound passengers are being observed at various transport hubs in the capital. Nevertheless, no major congestion or disorder has occurred anywhere.
Passengers reported that returning to Dhaka this time has been much more comfortable than before, thanks to empty roads, normal traffic, and adequate transport facilities. However, it is anticipated that the number of Dhaka-bound passengers might increase further in the afternoon and evening, just before the end of the holidays.
It is noteworthy that government officials and employees have been enjoying continuous holidays from May 25 to May 31 for Eid-ul-Adha. Offices, courts, banks, and most public and private institutions will reopen from tomorrow.