Fuel supply secured as up to 15 million prepare to leave Dhaka for Eid

Bangladesh’s public transport sector will receive sufficient fuel supply from Sunday, March 15, as authorities move to prevent disruptions during the peak Eid travel period, according to Road Transport and Bridges, Railways and Shipping Minister Sheikh Robiul Alam.

Speaking on Friday during a visit to Kamalapur Railway Station on the first day of the Eid travel season, Sheikh Robiul Alam said the government has taken steps to ensure uninterrupted fuel availability for buses and other public transport services.

He emphasised that the price of fuel oil will not be increased, dismissing concerns that transport operators could raise fares by citing fuel shortages. The minister said he had received assurances from the energy ministry that adequate fuel would be available across the transport sector.

According to Sheikh Robiul Alam, the government does not expect a shortage of vehicles during the holiday travel period. Authorities are working to manage what is considered one of the largest short-term population movements in the world.

He noted that between 12.5 million and 15 million people typically leave Dhaka within just two to three days ahead of Eid, creating enormous pressure on the country’s transport network. Managing such a large volume of travellers within a limited time frame remains a major logistical challenge, he said, adding that the government is making maximum efforts to handle the situation smoothly.

History of people leaving Dhaka for Eid 

The minister also highlighted ongoing efforts to modernise Bangladesh’s railway system. He said Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has directed authorities to transform rail services into a more modern and passenger-friendly network so that people can travel long distances comfortably within shorter times.

As part of broader transport improvements, the government is planning to add more train coaches, buses and water vessels to expand the country’s transport capacity. At the same time, officials are working to bring greater discipline to the bus transport system.

Most preferred transportation system

Addressing concerns over train schedules during the busy holiday period, Sheikh Robiul Alam said at least 85 to 87 locomotives are required to prevent major disruptions. At present, 78 locomotives have been deployed, and additional units are expected to be added within the next two days, which he said would further stabilise railway operations.

Security arrangements have also been strengthened to ensure safe travel during Eid. In addition to railway police, regular police, highway police, river police and law enforcement units from various districts have been mobilised. Ansar members and specially designated volunteers wearing distinctive jackets have also been deployed along key routes, with volunteers stationed roughly every 400 metres to maintain order and assist travellers.

Railways State Minister Habibur Rashid, Secretary Fahimul Islam and Bangladesh Railway Director General Afzal Hossain were present during the minister’s inspection of Kamalapur Railway Station.