Metro rail to remain closed on Eid day

Authorities have decided to keep metro rail services suspended in the capital Dhaka on the day of the upcoming holy Eid-ul-Fitr. The modern public transport service will remain closed only on Eid day during the long seven-day government holiday.

The matter was confirmed in an official order signed by A K M Khairul Alam, Director (Administration) of Dhaka Mass Transit Company Limited (DMTCL), on Monday, March 16. Authorities said this advance announcement was made to help city dwellers plan their travel ahead of the Eid holiday.

According to DMTCL sources, metro rail will not operate only on that specific day due to the special Eid holiday. However, train services will resume the day after Eid according to the predetermined regular schedule.

With metro rail closed, passengers will have to rely on alternative vehicles to travel from one part of the capital to another on Eid day. Although the capital empties out during the Eid holiday every year, discussions continue about the necessity of rapid transport like metro rail for commuting convenience, but this year a one-day break is being observed.

Government officials and employees are enjoying a long seven-day holiday for the holy Eid-ul-Fitr this year, combining Shab-e-Qadr and executive order holidays. A large portion of the capital's residents have already left for their ancestral homes during this long break, leaving Dhaka largely deserted. DMTCL is believed to have taken this decision considering technical maintenance or staff leave issues in such circumstances.

Metro rail authorities have apologised for the temporary inconvenience while extending advance Eid greetings to city dwellers. All preparations have been completed to resume services the day after Eid for regular passengers. DMTCL has requested passengers to return to stations and avail services according to the regular schedule.