Eight-Hour Gridlock Cripples Three Major Highways

Dhaka experienced severe traffic paralysis on Wednesday, 18 February, as three of the country’s key highways—Dhaka–Chattogram, Dhaka–Sylhet, and sections of the Asian Highway—were brought to a near standstill for eight consecutive hours. The disruption lasted from 6:00 am to 2:00 pm, causing immense distress to commuters and delaying the transport of goods across vital trade corridors.

Field reports indicated long lines of trucks, covered vans, buses, pickups, and private vehicles stretching for several kilometres. On the Dhaka–Chattogram route, Chattogram-bound traffic from Shonir Akhra to Madanpur extended nearly 20 kilometres, while the Dhaka-bound lane from Madanpur to Kanchpur experienced gridlock over approximately 5 kilometres. Vehicles in some areas remained stationary for hours, unable to move.

Passengers at Kanchpur described harrowing delays. A journey that normally takes 30–40 minutes between Kanchpur and Madanpur extended to three to four hours. Many commuters on urgent schedules failed to reach their destinations on time, prompting some to abandon buses and continue on foot.

Rafiqul Islam, travelling on a Dhaka-bound bus, said, “I left for my office in Meghna Industrial Area this morning. We have been stationary in the same spot for over two hours. The heat and smoke make it extremely uncomfortable.” Truck driver Shah Alam attributed the congestion to severely damaged sections of the Asian Highway, which slowed traffic and caused the lines of vehicles to grow rapidly.

Families were particularly affected. Chattogram-bound mother Tanzila Akter said, “Being stuck in the vehicle for hours with a child was very stressful.” Rashed Mahmud, an official of a private company, noted that he was unable to complete urgent office work due to the prolonged delays.

Traffic Impact Overview

Bishnupad Sharma, Traffic In-Charge at Kanchpur Highway Police, stated that following the conclusion of the election holiday, industrial activity surged, leading to an unexpected influx of trucks and goods carriers. Additionally, several segments of the Asian Highway near Madanpur are severely damaged, compelling vehicles to move at reduced speeds and causing unusual pressure on the Dhaka–Chattogram highway.

Traffic authorities deployed extra personnel and advised drivers to use alternative routes. However, experts warn that unless the damaged sections are promptly repaired and better management measures implemented for heavy vehicles, similar prolonged traffic jams are likely to recur in the future.