Traffic volume on the Dhaka-Tangail-Jamuna Bridge highway has surged since Monday night following the start of Eid holidays. However, the perennial nightmare of gridlocks is notably absent this year, with vehicles maintaining normal speeds across the key corridor.
A visit to vital points such as the Elenga bus station, Rabna bypass, and Ashekpur bypass revealed a diverse mix of commuters. Alongside traditional passenger buses, many travelers were seen heading home on trucks, pickups, rented motorcycles, and private cars.
Police sources confirmed that while the pressure intensified Monday afternoon, no significant congestion was reported as of Wednesday morning. The upgrade to a four-lane facility from Gazipur to Elenga has been credited for the seamless movement. Despite initial fears of bottlenecks on the 13.5-kilometer stretch from Elenga to the Jamuna Bridge, drivers and passengers are currently reaching their destinations without delay.
According to the Jamuna Bridge Authority, 46,963 vehicles crossed the bridge in the 24 hours between Monday and Tuesday midnight. This included 27,498 North Bengal-bound vehicles and 19,445 Dhaka-bound vehicles, resulting in a total daily toll collection of BDT 3.39 crore.
Syed Riaz Uddin, Executive Engineer of the Jamuna Bridge Site Office, stated that 18 toll booths (9 on each side) are operational to handle the Eid rush. "We have dedicated two booths on each side specifically for motorcycles to expedite the process," he said, adding that the situation is being monitored 24/7.
Muhammad Sharif, in-charge of the Elenga Highway Police Outpost, reiterated that law enforcement remains deployed in strength. "Despite the heavy pressure over the last two days, traffic remains fluid. We are working around the clock to ensure a smooth journey for all homebound citizens," he noted.
