Dhaka in high alert ahead of 13th national polls, streets largely empty

Dhaka wore an unusually quiet and heavily secured look Wednesday ahead of Thursday’s 13th National Parliament election. Streets normally crowded with commuters were largely empty as law enforcement officers conducting intensive patrols and checks across the capital.

Security personnel, including police and RAB, were stationed at key points in Mirpur, Agargaon, Bijoy Sarani, Farmgate, and Kawran Bazar. Vehicles were routinely stopped for verification, and passengers’ identities checked. Suspicious vehicles and individuals were closely monitored to prevent any untoward incidents.

Public transportation was severely limited. Few private cars, motorcycles, CNGs, and rickshaws were seen operating, while buses were nearly absent. The scarcity of transport led to higher fares for available vehicles and added difficulty for commuters.

Residents expressed a mix of caution and concern. Hridoy Sarkar, travelling from Dhamrai, said, “I could not find any vehicle in the morning. The roads were eerily quiet, unlike the usual Dhaka chaos. There is some fear due to potential unrest.”

Jamil Uddin of Mirpur, added, “It felt as if a curfew was in place. The heavy security and empty streets are intimidating, but we hope for a fair, peaceful election.”

Authorities noted that these heightened measures aim to ensure voter safety and smooth conduct of the election. Many offices and institutions have declared partial holidays, contributing to the unusually low traffic and pedestrian movement.

Bus terminals and railway stations showed signs of early voter movement, with many leaving the city to return to their hometowns to cast ballots, adding a contrasting vibrancy outside the capital while Dhaka itself remained calm.

With security forces on maximum alert and streets unusually empty, the capital reflects a cautious mood as Bangladesh heads into a high-stakes parliamentary vote. Officials stressed that all necessary measures are being taken to prevent disruption and ensure a safe electoral process.