Police Urge Safe Travel This Eid

With the holy festival of Eid-ul-Fitr approaching, the Bangladesh Police have issued comprehensive safety guidelines to ensure secure and smooth travel for citizens across the country. The advisory, released on Thursday (12 March) via a media statement, emphasises precautions for road, rail, and waterway journeys during the festive period.

Police have urged travellers to plan their journeys well in advance and prioritise the safety of themselves and their family members. Drivers should not be pressured to exceed speed limits, and passengers are advised to avoid travelling in risky conditions, such as on the roofs of buses or in cargo trucks and pickups carrying extra passengers.

For road crossings, pedestrians are encouraged to use zebra crossings or footbridges wherever possible. In locations lacking these facilities, travellers should cross cautiously while monitoring oncoming traffic, and seek police assistance if necessary. Citizens are also advised not to accept food or drinks from strangers and to remain vigilant against reckless driving.

Road Travel Guidelines for Bus Drivers

• Avoid speeding and hazardous overtaking.

• Refrain from driving when fatigued, unwell, or stressed.

• Carry all necessary documentation, including driving licences.

• Do not overload buses beyond seating capacity.

• Comply with police instructions on highways and regional roads.

Waterway Travel Precautions

• Do not board vessels with excessive passengers or ride on boat roofs.

• Avoid travel in adverse weather conditions.

• Wear life jackets on speedboats at all times.

Guidance for Vessel Owners and Captains

• Operate vessels only with certified masters and drivers.

• Suspend navigation during storms or hazardous conditions.

• Monitor passenger movement on the deck and ensure sufficient life jackets and buoys are available.

• Check weather forecasts before departure, avoid placing luggage in passenger seating areas, and move vessels to safe locations if a storm threatens.

• Keep mobile phones and radios on board to receive weather bulletins regularly.

Railway Safety Advice

• Avoid riding on train roofs, buffers, footboards, or engines.

• Remain alert to stone-throwing or other hazards.

• Keep personal belongings secure and travel with valid tickets only.

Emergency Contact Numbers

For urgent assistance, citizens can also contact the local Superintendent of Police or the Officer-in-Charge of the nearest police station. Authorities stress that following these precautions will help ensure a safe and joyous Eid for all travellers.