Bus owners have agreed not to charge fares beyond the government-fixed rates during this year’s Eid journeys, according to Home Adviser, retired Lieutenant General Jahangir Alam Chowdhury. He made the announcement today, Tuesday (June 3), during a briefing at the Secretariat focused on ensuring safe Eid travel.
The Home Adviser said discussions have been held with representatives from both bus owners and workers to ensure smooth travel during Eid. “Last Eid, the journey went smoothly. We’re hopeful this time will be the same,” he added.
He also emphasized that untrained or inexperienced drivers must not be allowed to operate vehicles. The bus owners’ association has agreed to comply with this directive. In addition, to prevent incidents such as robbers disguising themselves as passengers, photos of all passengers will be taken before departure. Each bus will have three assigned staff members carrying contact numbers for law enforcement. If any trouble arises during the journey, they are instructed to immediately inform both the bus owners and the authorities.
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On the issue of unfit vehicles, the Home Adviser made it clear that “Under no circumstances will unfit vehicles be allowed on the roads.” He also mentioned that drivers must get proper rest, and a monitoring committee will be formed to ensure that fares are being charged appropriately.
Speaking about security in the capital, he said that the long Eid holiday will run from June 5 to June 14. “We are alert to ensure safety across Dhaka and the entire country. All leave for law enforcement has been cancelled, except for emergencies.”
Meanwhile, Shamsur Rahman Shimul Biswas, coordinator of the road transport owners and workers, said, “We’re doing our utmost to ensure a hassle-free Eid journey. Police, owners, and workers will work together. When everyone is on the same page, any challenge can be managed.”
He also stated that a strict stance has been taken against extortion. “Extortion will not be tolerated, no matter who is involved be it an owner, worker, or a member of any political party.”
