As the sacred occasion of Eid-ul-Fitr draws near, the anticipated surge of homebound travelers commenced several days ago, marking the beginning of a mass exodus.
Yet, Dhaka’s urban denizens appear to delay their departures, choosing to prolong their stay in anticipation of the forthcoming holidays.
Nevertheless, some have embarked on their homeward journeys after securing requisite leave. This early departure trend has noticeably mitigated the usual hustle and bustle witnessed at bus terminals in the days leading up to Eid.
Ticket vendors operating within these terminals have observed a decline in passenger footfall, attributing it to the preemptive departure of family members. However, they anticipate a resurgence in passenger traffic as the holiday fervor reaches its zenith.
A visit to Dhaka’s Gabtoli bus terminal during the morning hours until noon on Sunday revealed relatively vacant counters. Despite the attentive demeanor of ticket sellers, the terminal exuded a sense of tranquility, with travelers patiently awaiting their departures post-ticket procurement.
Mainuddin, the counter manager of Sohag Paribahan, remarked, “Many travelers had already departed between April 1 and 3,” foreseeing an uptick in passenger numbers around the 8th and 9th of the month.
Similarly, Abdul Qayyum, the counter manager of Rabeya Paribahan, acknowledged the subdued terminal congestion, echoing Mainuddin’s observation of early departures by many travelers.
Expressing apprehension over the dwindling passenger count, Shahriar Hossain Tipu, the counter manager of Gabtoli for Jamuna Line Paribahan, lamented the underutilization of buses owing to diminished passenger volumes.
Roni from Golden Line Transportation highlighted the transformative impact of recent infrastructural developments such as the Padma Bridge on passenger preferences, contributing to a decline in their usual clientele.
Despite concerns raised by transportation providers, passengers expressed contentment with the serene terminal environment. Ismail Haider, securing tickets from Sakura Paribahan, expressed relief at the peaceful atmosphere, facilitating a comfortable journey for his family.
Almas Hossain, journeying to Rajbari, lauded the tranquil terminal ambiance, ensuring a hassle-free departure experience.
Another passenger, Saddam Hossain, expressed astonishment at the terminal’s emptiness, appreciating the convenience it offered for his journey.
Hamida Begum, a school teacher bound for Eid celebrations with family, eagerly anticipated the reunion, expressing gratitude for the ease of ticket acquisition facilitated by the uncrowded counters.
