Eid rush crowds Kamalapur, passengers climb train roofs
The rush of travelers leaving Dhaka ahead of Eid-ul-Fitr, one of the largest religious festivals for Muslims, has created unprecedented congestion at Kamalapur Railway Station, with thousands struggling to secure seats on trains.
Platforms, ticket counters, and waiting areas have been packed since early Thursday morning, highlighting the annual challenge of mass homeward travel during the festive season.
Since the first trains departed in the early hours, station authorities reported extreme overcrowding. Passengers were seen filling every corner of platforms, moving in such dense crowds that reporters described it as “no room to hold sesame seeds.” Many trains, including the Parabat Express and Teesta Express, were so full that travelers without seating options were forced to climb onto train roofs, a common but highly risky practice during peak Eid travel.
Tanim Hasan, a public university student, told Jago News that he decided to travel last-minute after completing his tutoring sessions.
“I bought a standing ticket at the station because I couldn’t book online,” he said. “Even then, there was no space inside, so I had to climb onto the roof of the Parabat Express. I just hope the weather remains clear, I've bought clothes for my family and don’t want them to get wet.”
Aminul Islam, traveling to Dewanganj with his wife and sister, shared a similar experience on the Teesta Express. “I have no choice but to travel on the roof,” he said. “Going by road would take more than two hours, and traffic jams are expected before Eid. Despite the difficulties, trains remain the fastest and safest option for reaching home.”
Shafiullah Sikder, another passenger, reported that even with a reserved seat, he could not reach his designated compartment due to the overwhelming crowd, reflecting the intense demand for seats.
Authorities have put in place strict security measures to maintain law and order. Only passengers with valid tickets are allowed entry, and a three-stage ticket verification system ensures that unauthorised travelers cannot access platforms.
According to Mobile Ticket Examiner (TTE) Aftab, several additional counters were opened to help passengers collect standing tickets, which account for about 25 percent of total ticket sales.
“Even if seats are unavailable, passengers holding standing tickets can travel to their respective destinations,” he said.
While climbing onto train roofs is hazardous, the tradition of returning home for Eid continues to drive thousands of passengers to endure discomfort and risk. Officials have repeatedly warned travelers about safety, urging caution while boarding and traveling.
Despite the challenges, the joy of reuniting with loved ones appears to outweigh the hardships.
EAR/MHK