Thousands of travelers heading north from Dhaka faced severe traffic congestion on Wednesday evening due to heavy rain, road repairs, and irregular transport fares.
Vehicles were nearly at a standstill along a 15km stretch from Bhogra in Gazipur to Chandra bus terminal on the Dhaka-Tangail highway.
Rain resumed around 10 pm, slowing traffic further from Chandra to Tangail. Many passengers resorted to open trucks, pickups, and makeshift arrangements when long-distance buses were unavailable. Chandra bus terminal was overcrowded, and boarding buses was difficult due to the downpour.
Law enforcement agencies have been deployed to ease congestion, but traffic remained slow. Police officers, equipped with raincoats and umbrellas, are working to manage the situation, according to Saugatul Alam, OC of Naojor Highway Police.
Ongoing road repair near Elenga in Tangail reduced lanes, worsening traffic. Congestion is expected to extend to Mirzapur, Pakulla, and Tangail roads. Md Harun, Tangail traffic police officer, said limited personnel have been posted to manage traffic, and vehicles disobeying police instructions may face action. Jamuna Bridge toll plaza may also experience heavy delays due to vehicle overflow.
Travelers were seen waiting anxiously, showing both relief and frustration as they tried to continue their journey north.
