The convergence of Eid-ul-Fitr and Pahela Baisakh, resulting in consecutive holidays, has led to a surge in holidaymakers departing for village festivities, marking a notable increase compared to previous years.
This year, the exodus from Dhaka to rural areas for Eid celebrations witnessed relatively smoother journeys, with fewer reported travel woes. However, a significant number of workers commenced their return to Dhaka on the second day of Eid, cutting short their holiday to avoid anticipated congestion.
While many urbanites are flocking back to Dhaka post-Eid, an even greater number are embarking on journeys to rural locales to partake in post-Eid merriment with family and friends. Notably, the volume of individuals departing Dhaka for villages exceeds those returning to the capital.
From Friday morning onwards, bustling scenes unfolded at train stations, bus terminals, and thoroughfares, as eager travelers sought passage out of Dhaka. Conversely, a gradual trickle of returnees to Dhaka was observed later in the day. Transport authorities anticipate a surge in passengers bound for Dhaka over the next two days, potentially intensifying congestion.
At dawn, terminals including Gabtali, Mohakhali, and Syedabad bustled with passengers bound for various destinations across the country. Many travelers expressed their determination to join in post-Eid festivities with relatives, even if they were unable to make it home on Eid itself due to various constraints. Transport officials anticipate continued departures from Dhaka in the coming days as individuals seek to reunite with loved ones.
