In the run-up to the 13th national parliamentary election, traffic across the Jamuna Bridge has surged to nearly double its usual volume. According to officials at the bridge’s toll plaza, a total of 36,923 vehicles crossed the bridge between midnight on Monday and midnight on Tuesday, generating toll revenue of BDT 29,471,660 in just 24 hours.
A toll plaza officer noted that under normal circumstances, approximately 15,000 to 16,000 vehicles traverse the bridge daily. However, during election periods and major holidays such as Eid, traffic volumes can double, reflecting increased movement of people and goods across regions.
For comparison, during the five-day Eid-ul-Azha holiday in June last year, 228,047 vehicles crossed the bridge, yielding total toll revenue of BDT 167,646,550. On the day before Eid, the bridge saw 48,184 vehicles in a 24-hour period, with toll collections amounting to BDT 34,372,750.
Traffic across the Jamuna Bridge during the current 24-hour period was distributed between its eastern and western ends as follows:
| Bridge End | Number of Vehicles | Toll Collected (BDT) |
|---|---|---|
| East (northbound) | 23,989 | 17,173,900 |
| West (southbound) | 22,034 | 11,533,750 |
| Total | 36,923 | 29,471,660 |
Officials highlighted that the increase in traffic was particularly noticeable among launches, trucks, and small to medium passenger vehicles. The combination of the upcoming election and recent holidays has encouraged greater inter-district travel, putting additional pressure on the bridge.
The Jamuna Bridge is considered one of Bangladesh’s most important transport links, connecting the capital, Dhaka, with the northwestern regions of the country. It facilitates the daily movement of thousands of people and large volumes of goods. During peak periods such as national holidays, religious festivals, and election seasons, toll collections can rise substantially above normal levels.
To ensure smooth traffic flow and secure toll operations, the toll plaza authorities, in coordination with the police, maintain round-the-clock monitoring. Authorities anticipate that although the current surge is temporary, it provides significant economic benefits and facilitates vital travel across the country during the election period.