Millions of people have started leaving the capital ahead of the upcoming Eid-ul-Fitr, leading to overwhelming crowds at major transport hubs, including Sadarghat Launch Terminal and Kamalapur Railway Station, as well as bus terminals across the city.

Though there is no specific surveys about how many city dwellers will leave the capital. However, acting commissioner of Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) Mohammad Sarwar told mass media that more than 10 million people are expected to travel to different districts from Dhaka to celebrate the Eid day with their near and dear.

Eid journey to be hassle free: Road Transport Minister

An estimated 1.5 to 2 million people are expected to leave Dhaka daily between March-16 and March 20. Besides, around 2 to 2.5 million people are expected to enter the capital from different districts to enjoy Eid vacation.

The mass exodus began with the start of a seven-day holiday from Tuesday early morning. Government offices, courts, and many private institutions are closed, prompting city dwellers to travel to their village homes to celebrate Eid with their families. Monday (March 16) was the last working day before the holiday.

It was seen that crowds began swelling at Sadarghat from Monday, while Kamalapur Railway Station witnessed passengers pressure from Tuesday morning. Though trains are running on schedule, all those are fully packed. However, on time schedule of trains bringing some relief to passengers.

To ensure a smooth journey, railway authorities have adopted strict measures. Multiple steps ticket verification is being carried out before allowing entry to platforms.

Yakub, a ticket checker, said authorities are maintaining maximum vigilance and not allowing entry without valid tickets. However, families are allowed one additional standing ticket at a fixed fare if needed.

Passenger pressure has also increased at nearby bus counters around Kamalapur, reflecting the overall intensity of Eid travel.

On Tuesday, Ali Hossain Fakir, Inspector General of Police, along with DMP Acting Commissioner Mohammad Sarwar, visited the Gabtoli Bus Terminal. During the visit, the IGP spoke with passengers and monitored the situation.

The IGP said that while Eid travel often causes severe traffic jam and suffering, this year special importance has been given to ensure a more comfortable journey. Law enforcement agencies are on high alert to prevent harassment, overcharging of fares, and unnecessary congestion.

The DMP Acting Commissioner added that police deployment has been strengthened in terminal areas to maintain law and order and ease traffic congestion.

Meanwhile, National Committee to Protect Shipping, Roads and Railways President Mohammad Shahid Mia said that around 10-15 million people travel to and from Dhaka during every Eid, resulting in acute transport shortages and long traffic jams before and after the holiday. However, he noted that administrative measures taken this year are satisfactory for ensuring safe travel.

Ashish Kumar Dey, President of the Shipping and Communication Reporters Forum, said that despite more than 10 million people leaving Dhaka each Eid, transport systems—by road, rail, and waterways—lack the capacity to handle such a large, one-way passenger flow within a week, often leading to disorder.

He also expressed concern over fuel shortages, particularly for launch and bus operators, who are worried about fuel availability for return after Eid. He warned that failure to ensure adequate fuel supply could worsen suffering for return passengers.

Subject to moon sighting, Eid-ul-Fitr is expected to be celebrated in Bangladesh on March 20 or 21.