Eid returnees crowd terminals as Dhaka regains rhythm

The post-Eid return of holidaymakers continues to gather pace, with large numbers of people arriving in Dhaka as the city gradually returns to normal following the Eid-ul-Fitr holidays.

Although the official holidays ended on Monday, the capital is only now witnessing a major influx of returning residents, as many extended their stays in their hometowns.

Road, rail and river terminals across the city were crowded today (27 March), with passengers arriving in large numbers throughout the day.

At Sadarghat Launch Terminal, a heavy flow of passengers from southern districts, including Barishal, Bhola and Barguna, was observed. 

Following a fatal accident on 18 March, when a passenger was crushed between two vessels, authorities have taken additional safety measures.

Fire Service personnel were deployed in front of launches to manage crowds and prevent further incidents.

Passengers said river journeys were relatively smooth, although vessels were overcrowded.

“From the decks to the cabins, there was hardly any standing room,” said a passenger arriving from Bhola.

The return rush was also intense at bus terminals. At Gabtoli, long-distance buses were seen dropping off passengers in quick succession along Mazar Road.

However, some travellers reported difficulties during their journeys. 

Ishtiaq Ahmed, who travelled from Bhurungamari in Kurigram, said heavy congestion near the Jamuna Bridge caused significant delays.

“Taking advantage of the rush, bus operators charged much higher than the fixed fares,” he alleged.

He added that CNG-run auto-rickshaws and ride-sharing motorbikes at the terminal were also demanding high fares for short distances.

Kamalapur Railway Station also experienced a large influx of passengers. Despite minor schedule disruptions, inbound trains arrived carrying more passengers than capacity.

Many travellers said they delayed their return by taking additional leave.

“My office reopened on Tuesday, but I took additional leave to spend time with my family and avoid the initial traffic,” said Tabibur, a private-sector employee returning from Naogaon.

Another passenger from Chattogram said they chose to return yesterday as schools are scheduled to reopen tomorrow.

With most private universities and schools set to resume full operations early next week, another surge of returnees is expected today.

Despite the increasing number of arrivals, Dhaka has yet to return to its usual level of congestion.

Major roads remain relatively clear, although crowds are gradually increasing in shopping centres and kitchen markets.

As small neighbourhood shops reopen, the city’s normal pace of life is slowly being restored.