Ahead of the upcoming Eid travel rush, the 13-kilometer stretch between Elenga and the Jamuna Bridge on the Dhaka-Tangail-Jamuna highway has again become a major concern. Despite completion of the four-lane expansion from Joydebpur to Elenga, the remaining section toward the bridge remains unfinished, causing severe traffic jams during past Eid journeys. Ongoing flyover and underpass construction in Elenga, combined with heavy vehicle pressure, is expected to worsen congestion this year.

Project officials said construction delays have led to frequent traffic gridlocks, with only half of the work completed so far. The contractor has requested a one-year extension, and authorities plan to open the northbound service lane for Eid travelers. Police in Tangail have deployed 1,000 officers to manage traffic and prevent robberies, which occurred during last year’s holiday period.

Traffic pressure is expected to peak on March 17 and 18, as thousands of vehicles head north. Police have pledged to keep unfit vehicles off the road and strengthen highway patrols to ensure safe travel during the festival.