Dhaka, Mar 22 (V7N) – Due to recent high-profile highway robberies and muggings, authorities have increased security with extra forces, patrols, and checkpoints.

These crimes, often targeting goods-laden trucks, covered vans, and passenger buses, have raised concerns about law enforcement agencies "inaction" and "lax patrols."

As a result, nighttime travel on highways has decreased, and the general public and relevant authorities have expressed worries over safety.


Amid this situation, concerns over security during the upcoming Eid travel season have intensified.

However, law enforcement officials have assured that extra security measures have been taken to prevent robberies, muggings, and any form of disorder during Eid travel, ensuring smooth movement for passengers on highways.

According to a source from the Highway Police, an additional force of 700 personnel has already been deployed across the country’s roads and highways for Eid travel.

Another 300 personnel will soon join them. In addition, district police, the Rapid Action Battalion (RAB), and other law enforcement units will be deployed to assist.


The source also revealed that a list of 1,443 robbers has been prepared, and operations are underway based on this list.

Currently, 300 highway patrol teams are active, and their numbers will be increased as Eid travel picks up.

The Highway Police further said that all national checkpoints will be monitored live from a central command center.

Eight Deputy Inspectors General (DIGs) from different police ranges will oversee these checkpoints.

Police have already arrested suspects involved in highway robberies in areas like Elenga, Chattogram Highway, Mohipal, and Noakhali.

To ease traffic congestion, the Highway Police have identified 64 "black spots" across the country where additional officers will be deployed. In areas prone to congestion due to roadwork or markets, local authorities will work alongside law enforcement to manage traffic.

Moreover, mobile courts will be conducted to ensure road safety and smooth traffic flow. Across the country’s 3,991 kilometers of highways, the Highway Police will operate 377 checkpoints, while district police will set up 114 additional checkpoints and deploy 527 patrol teams.

Meanwhile, to ensure a safe and smooth Eid celebration, the Police Headquarters has issued several safety advisories.


Travelers on regional roads and highways have been advised to follow police instructions if needed. Passengers, bus owners, and drivers have been urged to plan their Eid journeys with sufficient time and prioritize safety. They are advised not to pressure drivers to speed up and to avoid traveling on bus roofs, trucks, pickups, or other cargo vehicles.

Pedestrians are encouraged to use zebra crossings or foot overbridges when available and to cross roads cautiously in areas without such facilities.

To prevent unfit buses from operating, the Bangladesh Road Transport Authority (BRTA) has formed monitoring teams in all 64 districts. The BRTA is working in coordination with the police and local transport owners and workers to enforce these measures.

Imtiaz Ahmed, DIG (Operations, Northern Division) of the Highway Police, told Bangla Tribune: “This time, there is a long holiday before and after Eid. Since travelers have more time, they won’t all be on the road at the same time, reducing traffic pressure. We are working to ensure that no issues arise on the roads. An additional force of 700 personnel has already been deployed on highways, and another 300 will join soon. Additionally, district police, RAB, and other security forces will assist the Highway Police in maintaining safety.”

Saiful Islam, General Secretary of the Bangladesh Road Transport Owners' Association, said: “Robbery incidents during Eid travel are deeply distressing for everyone. Such crimes not only endanger passengers but also cause losses for us. We are working with the Highway Police to ensure safe Eid travel. Passengers should also remain alert. If they notice any suspicious fellow passengers, they should discreetly inform the driver, assistant, or the Highway Police so that the bus can be stopped near a patrol team for necessary action.”

The Bangladesh Passenger Welfare Association has said that the long Eid holidays should be strategically utilized to ensure a hassle-free and comfortable journey for travelers.

The organization’s General Secretary, Mozammel Haque Chowdhury, suggested several measures for safe Eid travel. He emphasized the need for strict enforcement against unfit vehicles, the implementation of route-specific speed limits, and a ban on buses operating without route permits.

To reduce traffic congestion and accidents, the association called for the removal of paddle rickshaws, battery-operated auto-rickshaws, Nasimon-Karimon (locally modified three-wheelers), and CNG-run auto-rickshaws from highways at least ten days before Eid.

Additionally, they recommended digitizing toll collection or increasing the number of toll booths to speed up the process.

Commenting on the issue, Bangladesh Highway Police Chief and Additional Inspector General Md Delwar Mia said: “We are committed to ensuring the safety of passengers during Eid. We are also working to reduce traffic congestion. Our goal is to make sure that no one feels unsafe while traveling on highways. We have strengthened security with patrols, checkpoints, and other measures across the country’s highways. We are optimistic about ensuring a smooth Eid journey this year.”

 

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