Road Transport and Bridges Minister Shaikh Rabiul Alam announced on Saturday that all fuel pumps along highways will operate 24 hours a day for seven days before Eid and five days after Eid to ensure uninterrupted travel during the holiday season.
The minister made the announcement while speaking to reporters at the BRTC bus counter in Gulistan area after inspecting traffic conditions in the capital.
He was accompanied by State Minister of Road Transport and Bridges Habibur Rashid and Road Transport and Highways Division Secretary Dr Mohammed Ziaul Haque.
According to Rabiul Alam, buses are departing on schedule and fares are being charged according to approved rates, with no reports of overcharging.
“The buses are leaving for their destinations on time and no additional fare is being taken,” he said.
The minister confirmed that the government has ensured adequate fuel supply for public transport and instructed operators not to cancel or refund advance tickets due to fuel concerns.
“There was an attempt to refund advance tickets citing oil issues, but we did not allow anyone to take advantage of the situation. All advance tickets remain valid,” he added.
Rabiul Alam expressed optimism that travellers would enjoy a comfortable and people-friendly journey during Eid.
Regarding rail travel, he said efforts are being made to ensure smooth passenger movement with available coaches and manpower, and he expressed satisfaction with recent management arrangements at railway stations.
Responding to a question on possible phased fuel rationing, the minister hinted that the public may soon receive “good news”.
He also warned that transport operators would not be allowed to increase fares or impose extra charges during Eid, noting that the government is closely monitoring the situation.
In preparation for the holiday rush, authorities have also ensured that road repairs are being carried out, construction materials have been removed from active work sites, and at least one lane remains open in areas under construction.
Officials have identified 260 locations nationwide prone to traffic congestion and instructed law enforcement, the Bangladesh Road Transport Authority (BRTA), district administrations and transport authorities to take immediate measures to prevent gridlocks at these spots.
