No compromise on safety during Eid journeys: IGP

Inspector General of Police Md Ali Hossain Fakir today said all units of the police force have been instructed to remain fully alert to ensure a smooth and safe Eid journey for homebound travellers, warning that no wrongdoing or irregularity will be tolerated.

“There will be no compromise over any untoward incident or injustice,” he said after visiting the Gabtoli bus terminal, one of the capital’s key entry and exit points.

Highlighting security concerns around transport hubs, the police chief said criminals, including drug users and snatchers, often gather in terminal areas.

“Terminals attract all kinds of people, including muggers and drug addicts. That is why I have directed all units across Bangladesh to deploy forces to ensure safe and orderly Eid travel,” he added.

The IGP acknowledged that passengers often endure long hours of traffic congestion during Eid, sometimes failing to reach home on time even after starting their journey a day earlier.

“This year, we are working to ensure that passengers do not face harassment, overcharging of fares, or excessive congestion on the roads,” he said, adding that the government has issued directives through coordination meetings to address these issues.

Regarding illegal bus counters operating within Dhaka, the IGP said he had made it clear after assuming office that long-distance bus counters would not be allowed inside the capital.

“We need collective efforts to remove such illegal establishments, and we will take legal measures to eliminate them,” he said.

During the visit, acting commissioner of Dhaka Metropolitan Police Md Sarwar and other senior police officials were also present.