Public transport charging fixed fares during Eid travel, says Rabiul

Road Transport and Bridges Minister Shaikh Rabiul Alam on Tuesday said Eid holidaymakers are returning to their hometowns comfortably as public transport operators are largely charging government-approved fares.

The minister made the remarks after inspecting the Sayedabad Bus Terminal in Dhaka to review passenger services and transport management ahead of Eid-ul-Azha.

He said authorities are closely monitoring transport operations to ensure passengers are not subjected to excessive fares or harassment during the busy travel period. However, he acknowledged that there are still limitations due to a shortage of vehicles compared to the high number of passengers travelling home for the festival.

Later in the day, the minister, who also oversees the shipping ministry, visited the Sadarghat Launch Terminal to assess preparations for safe and orderly waterway travel during Eid.

State Minister for Shipping Md Razib Ahsan accompanied him during the inspection.

During the visit, the ministers reviewed passenger services, security arrangements, launch schedules, fare monitoring systems and overall management activities at the country’s busiest river terminal. They also issued several directives to officials concerned to ensure smooth operations throughout the Eid travel season.

Shaikh Rabiul Alam said there is no opportunity for launch operators to charge extra fares because approved fare charts and digital display systems have already been installed on launches to inform passengers of the official rates.

He warned that authorities would take immediate action if any complaints of overcharging, irregularities or passenger harassment are reported.

The minister also stressed the importance of maintaining discipline and safety measures at transport terminals as millions of people continue travelling across the country ahead of the Eid holidays.

State Minister Razib Ahsan said the government is treating smooth and secure Eid travel as a top priority and that all relevant agencies are working in coordination to ensure passenger safety and uninterrupted transport services.