Eid rush boosts Jamuna Bridge toll collection to Tk 3.24cr in a day

Vehicular movement on the Jamuna Bridge surged sharply ahead of Eid-ul-Azha, with authorities collecting more than Tk 3.24 crore in toll revenue over the past 24 hours as thousands of holidaymakers began leaving the capital for their hometowns.

According to officials of the Jamuna Bridge authority, a total of 34,966 vehicles crossed the bridge between Thursday midnight and Friday midnight, generating toll revenue of Tk 3 crore 24 lakh 33 thousand 400.

Of the total traffic, 18,859 vehicles crossed through the east toll plaza toward northern districts, contributing Tk 1 crore 70 lakh 21 thousand 450 in toll collections. Meanwhile, 16,107 vehicles used the west toll plaza, generating Tk 1 crore 54 lakh 11 thousand 950.

Officials said traffic volume on the highway has nearly doubled as Eid travel intensifies, although no major congestion or significant delays were reported on the route.

Jamuna Bridge Executive Engineer Syed Riaz Uddin said traffic pressure began increasing from Friday afternoon. To manage the growing flow of vehicles, four additional toll booths will be opened from Saturday, raising the number of active booths to 18.

Authorities have also stepped up security and traffic management measures to ensure a smooth Eid journey for travelers.

Sirajganj Superintendent of Police Md. Saiful Islam Santu said more than 600 police personnel have been deployed along the highway corridor to maintain law and order and prevent traffic congestion during the Eid rush.

Officials expressed hope that coordinated efforts by bridge authorities and law enforcement agencies would help ensure a safe and uninterrupted holiday journey for homebound passengers.