Following the conclusion of the Sharadiya Durga Puja holidays, people from various professions have started returning to the capital, Dhaka, from Narsingdi to rejoin their workplaces. However, as the pressure of Dhaka-bound passengers increases, allegations of charging extra fares on public transport have emerged, causing significant suffering to commuters.
On Friday (October 23), several passengers returning to the capital complained of being forced to pay inflated fares across various bus services. They claimed that transport operators are taking advantage of the high passenger rush by charging prices well above the government-prescribed rates.
One passenger, Shahinur Akhtar, shared that after spending the holidays with family, they are heading back to Dhaka for livelihood obligations. However, the excessive fares have unexpectedly driven up their travel expenses, creating an added financial burden, particularly for low-income individuals and salaried employees.
With the influx of people returning to the capital continuing to grow, passenger rush at bus terminals and on highways is expected to rise further. Under these circumstances, commuters have urged the relevant authorities to step up monitoring and enforcement to maintain order in public transport and prevent unauthorized fare hikes.
Expressing her frustration, passenger Shahinur Akhtar said, "While returning to Dhaka after the Puja holidays, we are forced to pay extra fares. Paying more than the fixed rate causes immense distress to regular passengers like us. I request the authorities concerned to inspect the situation and take necessary action to stop this overcharging."
Passengers emphasized that if effective measures are taken against transport operators charging extra fares, common people will be able to travel with relief and comfort. They have demanded immediate intervention from transport management and the local administration.
— Daily Best News Desk • Fearless in the search for truth
Reported by Saddam, Correspondent, Narsingdi • Edited by the Daily Best News desk. Send corrections to [email protected].
