Relentless rain adds to Eid travel chaos nationwide

Continuous rainfall across large parts of the country on Wednesday (May 27) has intensified the suffering of millions of Eid holiday travellers, with severe traffic congestion, transport delays and waterlogging reported in several regions, including the capital Dhaka.

Since early in this morning (May 27), heavy showers have disrupted road movement and slowed Eid-bound journeys as passengers crowded bus terminals, railway stations and launch ghats in an attempt to reach their hometowns before Eid-ul-Azha.

The Bangladesh Meteorological Department said rain or thundershowers accompanied by lightning and gusty winds are likely in many parts of Dhaka, Rajshahi, Khulna, Mymensingh and Sylhet divisions, while some areas may experience moderate to heavy rainfall.

Weather officials also warned of temporary squalls over several inland river ports, particularly in Rajshahi, Pabna, Bogura, Jashore, Kushtia, Tangail and Mymensingh, where wind speeds could reach up to 80 kilometres per hour. Authorities have asked river ports in those areas to display warning signal number two.

In Dhaka, prolonged rainfall caused waterlogging on several roads, worsening traffic congestion during one of the busiest travel periods of the year. Homebound passengers were seen waiting for hours amid transport delays, while many struggled to move through flooded streets carrying luggage and families.

Although the rainfall has provided some relief from the recent heatwave, it has simultaneously created fresh challenges for Eid travellers as authorities continue efforts to manage the growing holiday rush nationwide.