Eid travel surge: Trains overcrowded, passengers ride on roofs

For a safe and comfortable journey, many people choose trains, and this Eid travel season is no exception. Over the past few days, thousands have been returning home by train. From early Wednesday morning, passengers heading to various parts of the country were seen gathering at Dhaka’s Kamalapur Railway Station.

Some waited with bags in hand, while others arrived with young children, preparing for long journeys. With seats inside the trains fully occupied, many passengers climbed onto the roofs to reach their destinations.

To manage the heavy passenger load, strict security measures have been implemented throughout the station. Members of the Rapid Action Battalion (RAB), police, Ansar, intelligence agencies, and railway security were widely deployed, with entry points and platforms under heightened surveillance and checks.

Railway authorities reported that as of 7:15 am, six trains had departed from Kamalapur Station to different destinations across the country, all leaving on schedule. Special attention is being given to ensure trains run on time for a smooth Eid journey.

Regarding passengers traveling on train roofs, a railway security official said, “We usually try to prevent anyone from traveling on the roof or bumpers. However, when a train has a capacity of one thousand passengers, four thousand people sometimes show up. Most of them are from lower- or middle-income families heading to their villages to celebrate Eid with family. Although traveling on the roof is risky, we allow it considering the humanitarian aspect.”

At the station, many passengers arrived well before the scheduled departure time. Some sat on platforms, while others chatted with family members. The excitement of returning home for Eid was evident even among children.

Speaking to Jago News, passenger Ahmed Arif said, “During Eid, buses are overcrowded and tickets are expensive. That’s why we are traveling by train. Train travel is comparatively safer and more comfortable.”

Another passenger, Shampa, said, “We arrived early to avoid any hassle. I can sit inside in a small compartment, but my husband is traveling on the roof. We know the journey is risky, but we are making it to celebrate Eid with our family.”

Railway authorities noted that comprehensive preparations have been made to ensure passengers travel safely and comfortably during Eid. They urged travelers to follow rules and carry valid tickets.

As of 7:15 am, six trains had left Kamalapur Station on schedule. These include the Rajshahi-bound Dhumketu Express, Sylhet-bound Parabat Express, Chilahati-bound Neelsagar Express, Chattogram-bound Sonar Bangla Express, Kishoreganj-bound Egarosindur Prabhati, and the Narayanganj Commuter Train.

At the start of the day, no trains departed late. Meanwhile, the Tista Express, Mahanagar Prabhati, Sundarban Express, and Burimari Express were waiting on platforms for departure.