Ahead of the upcoming Eid-ul-Fitr celebrations, the Traffic Division of the Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) has announced a series of safety measures to ensure smooth and secure travel for passengers, transport workers, and pedestrians.

In a press release issued on Tuesday, the DMP outlined the following guidelines for all concerned to follow during the holiday period.

Guidelines for Transport Owners and Workers

Inter-district buses should only pick up passengers at designated terminals and travel directly to their destinations without stopping along the way. Passengers should not be picked up or dropped off outside authorized ticket counters.

Parking restrictions: No vehicle should be parked on roads leading to or from Dhaka. BRTC buses must depart from their designated depots and avoid unnecessary routes through Dhaka. For example, buses from Gabtoli should travel directly to Rangpur and Rajshahi, while buses from Fulbaria and Kamalapur should head towards Chattogram and Sylhet.

Adherence to schedules: Buses must depart on time from terminals, and transport operators should not overcharge passengers.

Passenger safety: Passengers must not face harassment or misconduct, and buses should not sell multiple tickets for a single seat. No passengers should travel on the roofs of buses, and speed limits must be followed at all times. Reckless driving and overtaking in restricted areas, on sharp bends, and on narrow bridges are prohibited.

Driver safety: Drivers must not operate vehicles under the influence of alcohol or drugs or if feeling unwell or fatigued. Vehicles should only be driven by individuals with valid driving licenses and up-to-date vehicle documents. The use of mobile phones or earphones while driving, as well as loud music inside vehicles, is forbidden. Additionally, drivers should not be forced to drive for more than five consecutive hours or exceed eight hours of driving a day.

Vehicle maintenance: Transport operators should ensure that only vehicles in good condition—free of mechanical defects, smoke emissions, or damage—are used.

Guidelines for Passengers

Passengers should board buses only at designated terminals or counters, not on the street.

Safety precautions: Avoid accepting food or drinks from strangers, and keep luggage and personal belongings secure at all times.

Timeliness: Passengers should arrive at terminals or counters well before their scheduled departure time.

Road safety: Pedestrians must use foot overbridges, underpasses, or zebra crossings when crossing roads. Boarding or alighting from moving vehicles is strictly prohibited, as is traveling in goods-laden vehicles.

Emergency contact: In case of an emergency, passengers should contact the police control room at terminals or dial 999.

Instructions for Pedestrians

Pedestrians should always use zebra crossings, foot overbridges, or underpasses for crossing roads. Running or talking on mobile phones while crossing is discouraged.

Footpaths must be used for walking, not the main roads.

The DMP has urged transport operators, passengers, and pedestrians to comply with these guidelines to ensure a safe and trouble-free Eid journey. Cooperation from all parties is crucial for maintaining order and avoiding disruptions during the busy holiday period.