The Bangladesh Road Transport Authority (BRTA) has issued an urgent advisory concerning public transport and commercial vehicle movement ahead of the forthcoming Eid-ul-Fitr celebrations. The notice, released on Monday, outlines three key directives aimed at ensuring smooth traffic flow and road safety during the busy festive period. In addition, the authority has provided dedicated hotline numbers for urgent communications.
According to the BRTA announcement, restrictions will be in place for six days surrounding the festival: three days prior to Eid and three days following it, specifically from 17 March to 23 March. During this period, the movement of trucks, covered vans, and lorries on major highways will be prohibited. The restriction is intended to reduce congestion, prevent accidents, and facilitate the safe and timely movement of holiday-bound commuters.
However, essential goods and vehicles carrying perishable items, food supplies, garments, medicines, fertilisers, and fuel will be exempted from this temporary ban. This measure ensures that critical goods continue to reach their destinations without disruption.
The advisory also highlights a strict no-parking policy along the sides of major highways. Vehicles stopping or parking in restricted zones could impede traffic flow and increase the risk of accidents.
To maintain uninterrupted road operations and provide assistance in case of emergencies, the BRTA has urged all concerned parties to contact the central control room of the Roads and Highways Department. The dedicated helpline numbers are 16107, 01550051606, and 01550056577. Authorities emphasised that immediate communication through these channels will help resolve traffic issues and provide support where necessary.
The key points of the BRTA advisory can be summarised as follows:
| Directive | Date/Period | Applicable Vehicles | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Movement Restriction | 17–23 March | Trucks, covered vans, lorries | Major highway travel prohibited to reduce congestion |
| Exempt Vehicles | 17–23 March | Essential goods, perishable items, food, garments, medicines, fertilisers, fuel carriers | Allowed to operate despite restrictions |
| Parking Ban | 17–23 March | All vehicles | No parking along sides of key highways |
| Emergency Contacts | Continuous | All road users | Helpline: 16107, Mobile: 01550051606, 01550056577 |
BRTA has emphasised that compliance with these directives is crucial for the safety of all road users during the Eid period. Traffic management teams will monitor major intercity routes, including Dhaka–Chattogram, Dhaka–Khulna, and Dhaka–Rajshahi highways, ensuring that the movement of vehicles is orderly and secure.
Motorists and transport operators have been urged to adhere strictly to these guidelines, respect the parking restrictions, and plan journeys in advance to avoid delays. By following BRTA’s directives, the public can contribute to a safer and more efficient travel experience during one of the country’s busiest festive seasons.