Monday, 6th April 2026
Khabor Wala Desk
Published: 5th March 2026, 1:58 PM
Sheikh Robiul Alam, the Minister for Road Transport and Bridges, Railways, and Waterways, has categorically stated that during the upcoming Eid travel season, there will be no tolerance for excessive fares or extortion on the roads.
Speaking at a press conference this Thursday afternoon at the Road Transport Division’s conference hall in the Secretariat, the minister emphasised that unethical profiteering related to Eid travel is strictly prohibited. “There is no scope for taking undue advantage of travellers during the festive period. However, if owners or labour unions legally collect funds for registered welfare schemes, it cannot be considered extortion, as these funds are intended for the benefit of workers and operators,” he clarified.
Present at the briefing were the ministry’s two state ministers, senior officials from various divisions, and leaders of transport owner associations.
Responding to questions on whether the government allows any form of extortion in the transport sector, Sheikh Robiul Alam stated, “If any union or organisation lacks legal recognition and collects money arbitrarily from owners or workers, it will be deemed extortion. Verified complaints of this nature will be acted upon immediately, and strict measures will be taken against the offenders.”
To ensure a safe and comfortable Eid journey, the minister said that the government has conducted coordinated meetings with all relevant agencies in road, rail, and water transport sectors, along with owners’ and workers’ associations, and law enforcement authorities. He underscored that the upcoming travel surge is a logistical challenge, noting that “around 15 million people are expected to leave Dhaka within two to three days before Eid, requiring unprecedented vigilance and coordination.”
The minister outlined strict measures against fare violations and unlawful road activities:
| Measure | Details |
|---|---|
| Fare Regulation | Any fare exceeding the prescribed rate, even by one taka, will be penalised; route permits may be cancelled if necessary. |
| Law Enforcement | Highway Police and mobile courts will intensify road surveillance to prevent extortion and fare violations. |
| Road Safety | Temporary shops, illegal parking, and battery-powered vehicles will be restricted on highways; unfit vehicles will be barred. |
| Infrastructure | Ongoing road repair work will be expedited to maintain smooth traffic flow. |
| Public Transport | Stepwise factory holidays to prevent crowding; BRTA to deploy additional buses as needed. |
Sheikh Robiul Alam also mentioned that garment factories have been instructed to phase their holidays to reduce travel congestion. In addition, authorities have been directed to prepare extra buses and strengthen road supervision to ensure travellers reach their destinations without incident.
The minister concluded by reaffirming that all efforts aim to deliver a safe, orderly, and stress-free Eid journey for millions of citizens across the country.
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