Kamalapur sees surge in Eid travelers

As Eid-ul-Fitr draws near, Kamalapur Railway Station in Dhaka is witnessing a surge of travelers. Many families have already left ahead, while others are now heading home. March 16 (Monday), the official last working day for government employees before Eid, saw a massive rush at the station, with all trains reportedly fully packed.

On Tuesday (March 17), the crowd at the station was again overwhelming from early morning. Despite the heavy passenger load, all trains departed on time, and travelers appeared cheerful.

The day’s schedule began with the Dhaka-Rajshahi ‘Dhumketu Express’ departing at 6:00 am, followed by the Chilahati-bound ‘Nilnagar Express’ at 6:45 am, Khulna-bound ‘Sundarban Express’ at 7:15 am, Kishoreganj-bound ‘Egaro Sindur Prabhati’ at 7:30 am, and Dewanganj-bound ‘Teesta Express’ at 8:00 am—all leaving on time.

Railway authorities are enforcing strict measures to prevent ticketless travel. Entry to the station and platforms is controlled through a three-stage ticket check, and those without tickets are issued standing tickets before being allowed entry.

Ahsan Habib Shimul, traveling to Khulna, arrived at the suburban platform at Kamalapur after his pre-dawn meal. He noted that the ‘Sundarban Express’ was already at the platform. Shimul told Jago News, “Many of my colleagues have already sent their families home for Eid. I also sent my parents and wife last week. Today I am heading to my village. I am very pleased that the train has arrived on schedule, so I can meet my family in a short time.”

Tajul Islam, waiting with his family for the Buri Mari Express to Lalmonirhat, said, “Yesterday was the last office day. I did not book night tickets anticipating crowds. When I arrived this morning, the station was crowded, but it’s reassuring that no one is allowed entry without a ticket. Although it slightly delays reaching the platform, everyone can enter in an orderly manner.”

Ticket inspector Aftab added, “No one is allowed into the station without a ticket. If a family has more members than the number of tickets purchased, a standing ticket is arranged for the additional person at the designated fare.” He emphasized that strict precautions are being taken to maintain order during the Eid rush and prevent ticketless entry.

The holy festival of Eid-ul-Fitr is expected to be celebrated in the country on March 20 or 21, depending on the sighting of the moon.