Let Eid holidaymakers make safe return journey

Eid holidaymakers have started coming back to their work places after celebrating Eid with their near and dear ones. This time holidaymakers face less trouble to ensure journey to their homes compared to several previous years due to proper management. But the condition of highways was somewhat bad because of inclement weather which raised fears among people. The road transport and bridges minister was also worried about that but he tried his utmost for ensuring a smooth journey. He played a very active role to keep the highways fit for vehicular movement which is praiseworthy.

Despite active efforts taken by the minister, there were few road accidents at different places across the country while Eid holidaymakers were making their home journey. Of them, the biggest road accident was taken place in Rangpur's Pirganj. At least 17 people were killed as a truck laden with cement turned turtle in the area. This time there was additional vigilance in river routes for which it was possible to avoid accidents. This time it was also observed that launches and trains were carrying more passengers to take them to their respective destinations although it was watched over by the authority. But it happened as the number of passengers was more than vehicles to carry them. Specially, trains were jam-packed with passengers for which they were moving amid risk. But it is a matter of pleasure that no untoward incidents happened.

Besides, there were fears among people centring this year's Eid festival as militants carried out attacks in Dhaka's Holey Artisan and at Sholakia Eidgah in Kishoreganj before Eid last year. But ease and sense of security have come back to the minds of people as they celebrated the holy Eid-ul-Fitr without facing any untoward incident this year.

Incidents like snatching, hijacking, robbery take place in the country following holy Eid. Besides, dope gang also remains active at this time. But this time the activities of criminal gangs were very low. Law enforcement agencies were very alert to avert such incidents. Considering these matters, it can be said that this year's Eid is celebrated amid ease and comfort.

After celebration of Eid, holidaymakers have already started their return journey to attend their work places. It is normal that vehicles carrying them will remain jam-packed. For this, roads and highways will be filled with vehicles that will carry the holidaymakers for at least two weeks. That's why traffic congestion is feared. They may face inclement weather as it is rainy season. So, there is a chance to happen accidents. We should be careful in this regard.

We expect that drivers will show their responsibility while driving their vehicles. At the same time, passengers will also remain careful during the journey. It is better not to take risk during the journey. As we know life is more precious than time.

It is seen that many drivers take part in competition while they drive their vehicles. Overtaking tendency is also noticed. We all should be aware of this. We expect authorities concerned will play their role in this regard.

risingbd/DHAKA/June 29, 2017/Ali Nowsher/Amirul