Over 50 bus counters ordered shut in Chandra for Eid travel

The administration has ordered the closure of over 50 bus counters in the Chandra tri-mohor area of Gazipur to reduce passenger suffering and traffic congestion for those travelling to northern districts ahead of Eid-ul-Azha. The directive will take effect from Monday, May 25.

Gazipur Highway Police Superintendent Rahmat Ullah confirmed the matter on Saturday afternoon, May 23.

Most buses heading north sell their advance tickets days before Eid, leaving passengers without tickets at the various transport counters at Chandra Bus Terminal, causing immense suffering. There have also been complaints of ticket sales at excessive fares and harassment of passengers ahead of Eid.

Most buses heading north pick up passengers from Gabtali Bus Terminal in Dhaka before arriving in Chandra. Due to limited seating, transport shortages arise. Many passengers also travel to 26 northern districts by trucks and pickups in addition to buses.

Abdul Mannan, owner of a Hanif Transport counter in the Chandra area, said when counters are open, buses remain standing on the road, causing traffic jams. Moreover, no tickets are available at the counters ahead of Eid, leading to the order to keep them shut.

Fazlul Islam, representative of Orin Travels, said all tickets had been sold before Eid. Many passengers believe that buses operating outside the counters charge comparatively lower fares, leading to an increase in the tendency to haggle and board buses standing on the road.

The police superintendent said all preparations have been taken to ensure a smooth Eid journey. Over 600 police and volunteers will be on the ground. Passenger pressure will increase further from tomorrow. He urged passengers to report any complaints about fares or transport harassment directly to police boxes.