Dhaka-bound passengers crowd trains, buses as Eid holidays end

People returning to their workplaces in the capital, Gazipur and Savar after the Eid-ul-Fitr holidays began flocking back on Friday morning, causing huge crowds at Kamalapur Railway Station, Sayedabad, Mohakhali and Gabtoli bus stations, and Sadarghat Launch Terminal.

Trains arriving from various districts were overcrowded, with many passengers forced to stand or travel near doors.

Most Dhaka-bound buses were packed, while buses, trains and launches departing the capital for other districts saw much lighter crowds.

Shakir Javed, counter manager of Lal Sobuj Paribahan at Kamalapur, said Dhaka-bound passengers are overwhelming, but return trips from the capital are seeing fewer passengers.

Rafiqul Islam, arriving from Cumilla, said he was heading back to work after enjoying Eid with his family. He works as a quality manager at a garment factory in Savar.

Mohammad Tajul Islam, returning to Dhaka from Kabirhat in Noakhali, works as a production manager at an industrial park in Gazipur's Gacha area.

Since morning at Kamalapur, returning passengers were seen rushing to their destinations. Some took rickshaws, CNG auto-rickshaws, city buses or ride-sharing services. Despite the fatigue, relieved smiles were visible on the faces of passengers.

Many passengers reported no major difficulties on their return journeys. Although there was heavy crowding, they expressed relief at having safely returned after celebrating Eid with their families.

Touhid and his wife Sumaiya, returning from Narsingdi, said they enjoyed Eid with their families, including parents and in-laws, meeting relatives, neighbours and villagers. They described the joy of celebrating Eid in the village as wonderful.

Kamalapur Station Master Md Anwar Hossain said all trains are arriving on schedule. He reported no complaints of hardship from passengers, adding that everyone is returning comfortably. The overall environment at the station is pleasant and security has been ensured.

Government holidays for Eid were from March 17 to 23. Government offices, autonomous bodies and courts remained open on March 24 and 25. March 26 was a public holiday for Independence Day. Transport officials said the rush of Dhaka-bound passengers would continue tomorrow as well.