As the Eid-ul-Azha holidays conclude, a massive influx of people is returning to Dhaka today (June 22), preparing to join their workplaces tomorrow. 

The official holidays ended last Tuesday (June 18), but those who extended their leave by 2-3 days are now making their way back to the city.

Besides, many who couldn't take leave during Eid are leaving Dhaka to spend time with their families. This has resulted in overcrowded trains and delays, causing significant inconvenience for returning passengers. Despite purchasing tickets in advance, the heavy crowding has led to a shortage of seats, forcing many to stand during their journey.

A visit to Dhaka Railway Station on Saturday morning, June 22, revealed the crowded conditions. Trains arriving in Dhaka were packed, with passengers disembarking, carrying children and bags, and rushing to exit the platform.

Passengers reported extreme crowding and delays of one to two hours. The Burimari Express from Lalmonirhat arrived in Dhaka two hours late. 

Mohammad Tarek Aziz, who boarded with his family from Lalmonirhat, said that while boarding was smooth, the train became overcrowded after Bogura and Santahar, making the journey unbearably hot, especially for children. The train was supposed to arrive at 7 AM but reached Dhaka two hours late.

Another passenger, Mazhar Mahbub, faced difficulties due to a lack of tickets, forcing him to stand. He returned to Dhaka after spending Eid in his village and will be joining his office on Sunday, June 23.

According to the schedule board at Dhaka Railway Station, the Nilshagar Express bound for Chilahati was supposed to depart at 6:45 AM but left at 9 AM. The Burimari Express, scheduled to leave at 8:30 AM, also faced delays. The Dewanganj Eid Special, scheduled to depart at 9:25 AM, did not leave on time.

According to the Dhaka Railway Station authorities, trains were delayed due to congestion at various locations, causing late departures from the station. There was no specific reason for delays originating from Dhaka Station itself.

BDST: 1342 HRS, JUNE 22, 2024
SMS