Three-Day Transport Restrictions During Election

In anticipation of the 13th National Parliamentary Election and accompanying referendums on 12 February, the Bangladesh Election Commission (EC) has imposed temporary restrictions on the movement of certain vehicles. These measures aim to ensure smooth voting and maintain public order before, during, and immediately after election day.

According to the EC’s directives, motorcycles will be prohibited from operating from midnight on 10 February until midnight on 13 February. Additionally, restrictions will apply to taxis, pick-ups, microbuses, and trucks starting from midnight on 11 February until midnight on election day, 12 February. Notably, public transport buses will continue to operate normally, as no restrictions apply to mass transit vehicles.

Metro services in Dhaka will run on their regular schedule on election day. To facilitate voter movement, the Dhaka Mass Transit Company Limited (DMTCL) has announced plans to operate additional trains beyond the normal timetable if demand requires. This decision aims to prevent overcrowding and provide convenient travel for residents heading to polling stations.

Long-distance buses are expected to experience significant disruptions on election day, despite the absence of formal restrictions. Many bus operators and drivers are likely to take leave to cast their votes. Ramesh Chandra Ghosh, chairman of the Bangladesh Bus and Truck Owners’ Association, stated that intercity bus services will operate on 11 February, with limited services possibly resuming late on 12 February after voting concludes.

Rail services will continue according to their scheduled timings on both election and referendum days. To accommodate increased passenger demand, the weekly off-day for the Dhaka–Rajshahi Padma Express has been temporarily suspended.

The motorcycle ban from midnight on 10 February until midnight on 13 February will not apply to law enforcement, emergency services, medical personnel, newspaper distribution, journalists, election observers, airport-bound passengers, election officials, or individuals approved by the Election Commission.

Local authorities, including district magistrates and metropolitan police commissioners, have been granted discretion to impose or relax restrictions on additional vehicles based on local conditions and public requirements.

Summary of Vehicle Restrictions

These restrictions are designed to ensure safety, reduce traffic congestion, and facilitate the smooth conduct of the national election and referendums.