Dhaka, Mar 17 (V7N) — The first day of the Eid holiday has begun, with millions of People leaving Dhaka to celebrate the festival with their families in their hometowns. Government officials and employees are enjoying a seven-day, prompting an early surge in travel to avoid last-minute congestion.

A significant increase in passenger movement has been observed on both rail and road routes since morning. Pressure at Kamalapur Railway Station has risen compared to previous days, although strict measures have been enforced to regulate entry to platforms.

According to railway authorities, 11 trains departed from Kamalapur for various destinations across the country by 8 am, including 9 intercity and 2 commuter trains.

Meanwhile, road travel has also intensified, with many passengers departing from Gabtoli Bus Terminal since early morning. Travelers expressed hope that the extended holiday would make the Eid journey more comfortable this year. Law enforcement agencies remain on high alert to ensure a safe and smooth سفر.

As per the government holiday schedule, Eid falls on March 21, with additional holidays declared on March 19–20 and March 22–23. Following public demand, March 18 was also declared a holiday by the Ministry of Public Administration through an executive order, resulting in a continuous seven-day holiday from March 17 to March 23.

During this period, all government, semi-government, autonomous, and private offices will remain closed. However, essential services—including hospitals, emergency healthcare, electricity, water, gas, fire service, port operations, sanitation, telecommunications, postal services, and related transport—will remain operational to ensure uninterrupted public service.

END/SMA/AJ