Road Transport and Bridges and Shipping Minister Shaikh Rabiul Alam on Monday warned that transport operators will not be allowed to increase fares by citing the recent fuel supply situation.
Speaking to reporters after visiting the Mohakhali Bus Terminal, the minister said the government has already ensured adequate fuel supply for public transport ahead of the Eid-ul-Fitr travel rush. Therefore, there is no justification for any transport operator to charge passengers more than the approved fares.
Rabiul said authorities are closely monitoring bus services across the capital to prevent any attempt to exploit passengers during the Eid journey. If any operator is found charging extra fares on the pretext of fuel shortages, strict action will be taken immediately.
According to the minister, inspections at major bus terminals showed that passengers were purchasing tickets normally and boarding buses in an orderly manner.
He also noted that no incidents of overcharging had been reported over the past week. In some cases, passengers were even being transported at fares slightly lower than the official rates.
Officials from the Bangladesh Road Transport Authority, law enforcement agencies and volunteers from transport owners’ and workers’ associations are working together to maintain discipline and ensure smooth operations at terminals.
The minister said passenger pressure is expected to rise significantly as millions of people prepare to leave Dhaka for their hometowns ahead of the Eid holidays. To manage the rush, additional buses have been kept ready and special traffic arrangements have been put in place to maintain smooth entry and exit at bus terminals.
He added that authorities are coordinating closely to ensure a safe, comfortable and affordable journey for holidaymakers across the country.
