Authorities have banned the movement of trucks, covered vans and lorries on the country’s highways for seven days to ensure normal passenger movement ahead of the holy Eid-ul-Fitr. The decision, which came into effect from Tuesday (March 17), will remain in force until March 23.
The Bangladesh Road Transport Authority (BRTA) said in an emergency notification that the move has been taken to manage the additional pressure during the Eid pilgrimage and reduce traffic congestion. However, some vehicles have been exempted from the ban to avoid disruption to the transport of essential goods.
The organization said that vehicles carrying food, perishable goods, ready-made garments, medicines, fertilizers and fuel will be exempt from the ban.
In addition, instructions have been given not to park vehicles randomly along the highway so as not to disrupt traffic flow.
The central control room of the Road Transport and Highways Department will remain open to supervise transport management. In any emergency situation, people have been asked to contact 16107 or the designated mobile number.
Concerned officials say that if this system is implemented effectively, it is expected that the suffering during this year’s Eid journey will be significantly reduced.