On Eid-ul-Fitr, the Jamuna Bridge in Bangladesh experienced a surge of traffic, facilitating the passage of 13,906 vehicles and collecting a total of Tk 61,01,400 in tolls, officials reported. The bridge, a crucial lifeline linking Dhaka with northern districts, witnessed heavy movement as holidaymakers returned home to celebrate the festive occasion with family.
The toll and traffic data were confirmed by Syed Riaz Uddin, Executive Engineer of the Jamuna Bridge, during a press briefing at 11:00 AM on Sunday, 22 March. He provided a breakdown of vehicle movement and toll collection at both ends of the bridge.
Traffic and Toll Collection Overview
| Direction | Vehicles Passed | Toll Booths | Toll Collected (Tk) |
|---|---|---|---|
| East End (Entering North) | 7,786 | 9 | 33,56,600 |
| West End (Exiting North) | 6,120 | 9 | 27,44,800 |
| Total | 13,906 | 18 | 61,01,400 |
According to Uddin, 7,786 vehicles crossed via the eastern approach heading northwards, generating Tk 33,56,600 through nine toll booths. Meanwhile, 6,120 vehicles travelled westward, leaving the northern regions, contributing Tk 27,44,800 at the nine western toll booths.
He also highlighted that over the four-day Eid period, nearly 180,000 vehicles passed over the bridge, accumulating toll revenue exceeding Tk 13 crore. Such figures reflect both the bridge’s strategic importance and its role in facilitating large-scale domestic travel during peak holiday periods.
Infrastructure and Economic Significance
The Jamuna Bridge, also known as Bangabandhu Bridge, spans the mighty Jamuna River and ranks among South Asia’s largest bridges. Beyond its role as a transportation artery, the bridge plays a key part in economic activity, generating significant revenue through toll collection that supports maintenance, operational costs, and infrastructure development.
Authorities emphasised that traffic management, toll booth efficiency, and safety measures are prioritised during high-traffic periods to ensure smooth vehicle movement. The Eid toll collection demonstrates the resilience of Bangladesh’s transport network, reflecting both robust domestic mobility and the efficiency of national infrastructure during major festivals.
The record toll and vehicle count highlight the critical role of the Jamuna Bridge in maintaining connectivity across the country, supporting commerce, and enabling safe travel for millions. Such data also provides a benchmark for future holiday travel planning, illustrating the importance of continuous investment in transportation infrastructure.