Large numbers of Dhaka residents are leaving the capital to vote in their home districts ahead of Thursday’s national election and referendum. The government has declared Tuesday a holiday for industrial workers and Wednesday for other employees to facilitate voter participation. With Friday and Saturday being regular weekends, citizens are enjoying an extended break, prompting a rush for long-distance travel by bus, train, and launch. Many who booked tickets early are traveling comfortably, while others are struggling to find seats.

On Monday, major terminals and stations in Dhaka saw heavy crowds, particularly from industrial areas where workers’ holidays had already begun. Transport operators reported that most tickets were sold in advance, leaving few options for last-minute travelers. Some bus companies have added extra trips to meet demand, while train and launch passengers faced less difficulty. Officials said the extended holidays were approved last week to ensure voters could return home easily.

The chief adviser’s press secretary stated that the decision aims to allow citizens, especially those from major cities, to vote in their local constituencies after being unable to do so in previous elections.