In a move aimed at facilitating smoother traffic flow during a significant political event, authorities have announced that the Elevated Expressway in Dhaka will be toll-free for four hours on Thursday, 25 December. The decision coincides with the return of BNP’s acting chairman, Tarique Rahman, to the country.
The announcement was made public on Wednesday, 24 December, through a press release issued by the Press Wing of the Chief Adviser’s office. According to the statement, the toll exemption will apply to vehicles entering the city from the airport area via the Elevated Expressway.
Key Details of the Toll-Free Period:
| Date | Time Window | Location Affected | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25 December 2025 | 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM | Elevated Expressway, Airport Entry Route | Toll-free travel for all vehicles |
During the specified period, motorists will be able to travel along the expressway without paying the usual toll fees, providing a temporary relief for commuters and reducing congestion at the toll plazas. The authorities emphasised that this measure is intended to facilitate public convenience during a high-traffic window.
Traffic management officials have urged commuters to plan their journeys accordingly and to observe traffic regulations strictly to ensure safety. The toll-free period is expected to witness a surge in vehicles as residents travel to the city centre from the airport area and surrounding regions.
This is not the first time authorities have implemented temporary toll exemptions on major roadways in Dhaka. Previous instances, particularly during national holidays or significant political events, have demonstrated that short-term toll-free initiatives can significantly improve traffic flow and reduce delays for commuters.
Transport analysts have noted that while toll exemptions provide immediate relief for drivers, they also pose logistical challenges for expressway management, including increased traffic density and the need for enhanced monitoring during peak periods. Authorities are reportedly deploying additional traffic police and automated monitoring systems along the Elevated Expressway to manage the expected flow effectively.
Commuters and local residents are advised to take note of the toll-free timing and plan their travel accordingly to benefit from the temporary waiver.