In a bid to ensure a peaceful and secure environment for the upcoming national parliamentary elections, the Election Commission (EC) has imposed restrictions on the movement of various types of vehicles. These measures will be in effect in the days immediately preceding the election, as well as on the polling day, 12 February.
Mohammad Monir Hossain, Deputy Secretary of the Election Administration Division, communicated the decision in a letter dated Tuesday, 27 January, addressed to the Road Transport and Highways Division. The letter urged the authorities to implement the restrictions effectively. According to the EC, motorcycles will be prohibited from operating for three consecutive days, while larger vehicles such as trucks, microbuses, pickups, and taxis will face a 24-hour restriction.
The EC has provided detailed information on the vehicle movement restrictions, summarised in the table below:
| Vehicle Type | Restriction Duration | Date & Time |
|---|---|---|
| Motorcycles | 72 hours (3 days) | 10 Feb 00:00 – 13 Feb 00:00 |
| Trucks, Microbuses, Pickups, Taxis | 24 hours | 11 Feb 00:00 – 12 Feb 00:00 |
Under these directives, the restricted vehicles are generally prohibited from operating on city roads, district roads, and national highways. However, certain exceptions have been allowed for vehicles providing essential or emergency services, including:
Law enforcement, armed forces, and administrative vehicles
Accredited election observers and media personnel
Ambulances and vehicles transporting emergency medicines
Airport passenger transport (subject to ticket verification)
Long-distance passenger transport vehicles
Vehicles belonging to candidates or their agents (with returning officer approval)
BTRC-approved telecom service vehicles
Additionally, special exemptions will be granted at national highways, ports, and key city or district entry points. District Commissioners and Metropolitan Police Commissioners retain the authority to further tighten or relax these restrictions based on local conditions and security assessments.
The Election Commission has emphasised that violation of these instructions will result in legal action. Citizens have been urged to plan their travel carefully and comply fully with the restrictions to ensure personal safety and facilitate smooth electoral operations. The temporary suspension of motorcycle and heavy vehicle movement is considered particularly critical, and the public is strongly advised to adhere to these regulations.