As the election holiday began on Tuesday, thousands of people set off from Dhaka to celebrate with family and friends across the country, creating a lively surge of homebound travelers at Padma Bridge Toll Plaza on the Dhaka–Mawa Expressway.
The toll plaza saw particularly heavy traffic from motorcycles, with many families riding together, while passenger buses experienced relatively lighter congestion.
The scene reflected the excitement of the festive season, as people eagerly headed to their hometowns to reunite with loved ones.
Despite the cheerful rush, some travelers reported challenges along the expressway at points including Nimtala, Hasara, Shologhar, and Shrinagar–Chanbari, where a few buses reportedly refused to stop for passengers or charged fares above the official rates.
Commuters said that some buses ignored waiting passengers even when seats were available, causing frustration for those eager to reach their destinations.
Authorities noted that overall traffic remained smooth and no major jams were observed despite the surge.
While local administration and transport officials have yet to issue a statement, passengers are hopeful for quick measures to ensure fair fares and smooth service at designated stops, allowing everyone to enjoy a joyful and safe journey home.
HIL/SH
