With the upcoming Eid holiday approaching, authorities in Bangladesh fear severe traffic congestion and increased road accidents on major highways. According to highway police, around 207 congestion-prone spots and more than 285 accident-prone locations (black spots) have been identified across the country.

The highest number of accident-prone areas has been identified in Cumilla with 87 locations, while the lowest number is in Rangpur with only eight. Other regions with notable accident risks include Gazipur, Madaripur, Bogura, and Sylhet.

Officials say major causes of highway congestion include:

• Heavy vehicle pressure during holiday travel

• Ongoing and unplanned road or bridge construction

• Reckless driving

• Illegal markets and roadside structures on highways

• Long-distance buses picking up and dropping passengers at random points

To ensure a safer journey for Eid travelers, Bangladesh Police has announced special security measures. Nearly 4,000 police personnel, 820 patrol teams, and over 300 checkpoints will operate across highways. Authorities will also use drones and speed guns to monitor traffic and control vehicle speeds.

Police headquarters’ media assistant inspector general A H M Shahadat Hossain said law enforcement agencies are working to ensure that the Eid travel of millions remains safe and comfortable.

Meanwhile, the executive director of Road Safety Foundation, Saidur Rahman, noted that reckless motorcycle driving and battery-powered rickshaws entering highways significantly increase accident risks during the Eid holiday period.

Experts emphasize that following speed limits, maintaining lane discipline, and obeying traffic signals could significantly reduce accidents on Bangladesh’s highways during the busy holiday travel season.