Police issue safety guidelines for Eid holidays

Bangladesh Police yesterday issued a comprehensive set of safety guidelines for travellers and transport operators to ensure a smooth journey during the upcoming Eid-ul-Fitr holidays.

The move comes as millions prepare to leave the capital, prompting the Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) to step up security measures against mugging and robbery in an emptying city.

In a press release, the police headquarters urged travellers to plan their trips in advance and remain mindful of personal safety. Passengers were advised not to pressure drivers to speed and were warned against travelling on the roofs of buses, trucks, or goods-laden vehicles.

“Accepting food or drinks from strangers during the journey is strictly discouraged,” the statement said, referring to the risk of drugging gangs, commonly known as the “malam party”.

Bus drivers were requested to avoid risky overtaking and refrain from driving when fatigued or ill. Transport operators were also instructed to carry valid licences and avoid overloading vehicles.

On waterways, passengers of launches, steamers, and speedboats were advised not to board vessels beyond their capacity or travel on roofs. Police also warned against travelling during adverse weather and urged speedboat passengers to wear life jackets.

Launch owners were instructed to ensure their vessels are operated by qualified masters and to suspend operations during bad weather. Vessels should also carry functional fire pumps and buoys with ropes measuring 100 to 150 feet to help identify accident-hit vessels.

Train passengers were similarly cautioned against travelling on roofs, buffers, or engines. Police also warned of possible stone-throwing incidents and urged passengers to safeguard their belongings.

In case of emergencies, the public can contact the Police Headquarters control room at 01320001300 or 01320001299. Other emergency contacts include the Highway Police (01320182598), Railway Police (01320177598), and Naval Police (01320169598).

Meanwhile, Acting DMP Commissioner Md Sarwar instructed police members to remain alert to ensure safe and smooth travel during the Eid holidays.

Speaking at the monthly crime review meeting for February 2026 at the DMP headquarters yesterday, he said most people would leave Dhaka during Eid and urged officers to stay vigilant so crimes such as robbery and mugging do not occur.

He said additional police forces will be deployed to ensure safe and orderly travel and urged officers to perform their duties with honesty to enhance the force’s image.

Additional Police Commissioner (Crime and Operations) S N Md Nazrul Islam stressed the need for visible improvements in law and order.

He directed officials to maintain special supervision at major terminals, including Gabtoli Bus Terminal, Mohakhali Bus Terminal, Sayedabad Bus Terminal, Kamalapur Railway Station, and Sadarghat Launch Terminal.

Nazrul also ordered increased patrolling across the city’s beat areas and regular monitoring of CCTV cameras at shopping malls. “A zero-tolerance policy will be followed in maintaining law and order,” he said.