Heavy traffic congestion gripped parts of Dhaka on Sunday (August 3) as multiple political gatherings and major public examinations coincided with the first working day of the week.

Two large-scale events are being held in key areas of the capital—Jatiyatabadi Chhatra Dal held a student rally at Shahbagh to mark the anniversary of the July-August mass uprising, while the Nationalist Citizen Party (NCP) arranged a public gathering at the Central Shaheed Minar demanding the formal adoption of the “July Declaration and Charter.”

Earlier, Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) Commissioner Sheikh Md Sajjat Ali, signed a public notice in this regard.

According to notice, DMP warned that Shahbagh Crossing would be largely inaccessible during the events due to large gatherings.

Commuters expressed frustration over the prolonged traffic standstills and slow-moving vehicles, particularly on routes adjacent to Shahbagh and Dhaka University. Many reported arriving late to work or examination centres.

Authorities have urged residents to avoid the affected areas where possible and to use alternate routes throughout the day.

MSK/