Ahead of the upcoming Eid-ul-Fitr holidays, Bangladesh Police have issued a comprehensive travel advisory for passengers, transport operators, and vessel owners to ensure safe and smooth journeys across the country.
In a press release signed by AIG (Media & PR) Inamur Haque Sagar on Thursday (20 March), the police outlined key recommendations to avoid accidents, maintain discipline, and facilitate a secure travel experience.
Guidelines for passengers:
- Plan your Eid journey with ample time in hand and prioritise safety for yourself and your family.
- Do not pressure drivers to speed up; reckless driving increases the risk of accidents.
- Avoid travelling on bus rooftops or in cargo vehicles such as trucks and pickups.
- Use zebra crossings or foot overbridges when crossing roads. Where unavailable, ensure traffic safety before proceeding.
- Refrain from accepting food or drinks from unknown individuals.
Instructions for bus owners and drivers:
- Do not permit unskilled, exhausted, or unwell drivers to operate passenger vehicles.
- Ensure drivers follow road rules and avoid risky overtaking.
- Unfit vehicles should not be allowed on the road.
- Carry all necessary vehicle documents, including a valid driving licence.
- Do not exceed passenger limits and adhere to police directives while travelling on highways.
Advisory for river transport passengers and operators:
- Avoid overcrowding on launches, steamers, and speedboats.
- Refrain from travelling on vessel rooftops or setting sail in adverse weather conditions.
- In case of a storm, remain seated and do not panic.
- Passengers must wear life jackets when travelling on speedboats.
- Vessel operators must ensure adequate safety equipment such as life buoys and life jackets.
- All vessels must be operated by licensed masters and drivers and should not venture into hazardous conditions.
- Keep a mobile phone or radio onboard to receive weather updates.
Train passengers urged to exercise caution:
- Avoid travelling on train rooftops, buffers, footboards, or engines, as this poses serious risks.
- Be vigilant against stone-throwing incidents during train journeys.
- Keep personal belongings secure while travelling.
- Only travel with valid tickets.
Passengers and operators in need of assistance can contact the following emergency numbers:
- Police Headquarters Control Room: 01320001300, 01320001299
- Highway Police Headquarters: 01320182598
- Railway Police Headquarters: 01320177598
- River Police Headquarters: 01320169598
- Rapid Action Battalion (RAB): 01777720029
- Police urge all travellers and transport authorities to follow these guidelines to ensure a safe and peaceful Eid journey.
