A seven-day holiday marking Eid-ul-Fitr began on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, prompting large numbers of people to leave Dhaka for their hometowns. Crowds surged at Kamalapur Railway Station, Gabtoli Bus Terminal, and Sadarghat Launch Terminal as families departed early in the morning. Reports indicated that most northbound trains left on schedule, except for the Nil Sagar Express, with passengers even riding on train roofs due to high demand. Some travelers alleged that transport operators were charging extra fares.

Kamalapur Station Master Anwar Hossain said all train tickets were sold online, and standing tickets were being issued, allowing 25 standing passengers per 100 seats. Bus terminals in Gabtoli and Kalyanpur also saw heavy passenger flow, with concerns over traffic congestion and fare hikes. Meanwhile, river routes to southern districts such as Barishal, Bhola, Patuakhali, and Barguna operated on schedule, and passengers expressed satisfaction with standard fares.

The first day of the holiday reflected both festive excitement and travel challenges as millions began their journey home for Eid celebrations.