Following the announcement of a continuous four-day public holiday to mark the upcoming 13th National Parliamentary Election, Gazipur’s industrial areas have witnessed an unprecedented exodus of people returning to their hometowns. The surge has resulted in severe traffic congestion along major routes, including the Dhaka–Tangail and Dhaka–Mymensingh highways, stretching over approximately 50 kilometres. Commuters have also alleged that transport operators have exploited the situation, hiking fares by up to threefold.
From Tuesday morning (10 February), both highways experienced extensive gridlock. On the Dhaka–Mymensingh route, vehicles were at a near standstill from Tongi College Gate to Maona Intersection, while on the Dhaka–Tangail highway, congestion extended from Bhogura to Kaliakoir Bypass. Many travellers found themselves stranded for hours, waiting for traffic to ease.
Reports indicate that fares for buses and smaller vehicles have risen sharply. A journey previously costing 500 BDT now ranges from 1,200 to 1,500 BDT, leaving many passengers frustrated. Some commuters attempted to protest or briefly block roads, particularly around Chandana Intersection and Maona areas in Gazipur.
The surge began on Monday (9 February) afternoon, following the closure of nearly 400 factories in Gazipur. Since evening, the number of people travelling home has increased dramatically. Passengers from 26 northern districts have crowded the Chandra Bus Terminal, waiting for hours to board buses, trucks, and pickups. Overnight, the terminal remained full, and by Tuesday morning, travellers were making their way to their destinations in waves.
Law enforcement personnel have been deployed at Chandra Bus Terminal, Chandana Intersection, and Bhogura Bypass to manage traffic and maintain order.
OC of Gazipur Nawjore Highway Police stated: “Traffic congestion has arisen due to election-related factory holidays. Our officers are working to keep the roads clear. However, some transport operators are charging excessive fares. We are monitoring the situation closely and will take action against those violating fare regulations.”
Dhaka–Gazipur Highway Traffic Overview
| Highway | Traffic Start Point | Traffic End Point | Distance (km) | Normal Fare (BDT) | Current Fare (BDT) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dhaka–Tangail Highway | Bhogura Area | Kaliakoir Bypass | 25 | 500 | 1,200–1,500 |
| Dhaka–Mymensingh Highway | Tongi College Gate | Maona Intersection | 25 | 500 | 1,200–1,500 |
The situation highlights how election-related factory closures and public holidays are significantly affecting Gazipur’s transportation network and commuters’ daily routines. Authorities continue to intensify monitoring and enforcement, aiming to ensure both vehicles and passengers reach their destinations safely.