The Election Commission (EC) of Bangladesh has announced a nationwide restriction on five categories of vehicles ahead of the 13th National Parliamentary Election and referendum. Starting from midnight on Wednesday, motorcycles, taxicabs, pickups, microbuses, and trucks will be prohibited from operating until midnight on Thursday, the day of voting. Motorcycle movement will remain restricted from Tuesday midnight until Friday midnight, except for those bearing EC-issued stickers. Private cars will be allowed for voters to reach polling centers, and metro rail services will operate as usual.

The EC stated that the restrictions will be relaxed for law enforcement agencies, armed forces, administrative officials, and accredited observers. Emergency service vehicles carrying medicines, healthcare supplies, or newspapers will be permitted to operate. Vehicles transporting passengers to and from airports will also be allowed if travel documents are shown. Long-distance passenger vehicles and local transport for such passengers are exempt from the ban, and no specific directive has been issued regarding public transport.

The measures are part of the EC’s broader plan to ensure smooth and secure voting across the country.