Road Transport, Bridges, Rail and Shipping Minister Sheikh Robiul Alam stated that collecting money for welfare funds by registered and legal owners’ or workers’ associations cannot be considered extortion. He made the remarks at a press conference following a meeting on Eid travel preparations at the Secretariat on Thursday afternoon. The minister emphasized that no unethical benefits will be allowed during the Eid travel period.

Responding to questions about whether the government is legitimizing extortion in the transport sector, the minister clarified that if any unregistered or unauthorized group collects money arbitrarily, it will be treated as extortion and immediate action will be taken. He added that all relevant agencies, transport associations, and law enforcement bodies have been holding meetings to ensure safe and comfortable Eid travel. The minister warned that no extra fares or roadside extortion will be tolerated.

Sheikh Robiul Alam also said that about 15 million people are expected to leave Dhaka within two to three days before Eid, posing a major challenge. Authorities will remain more active than ever, with coordinated preparations, additional BRTC buses, and staggered factory holidays to ease travel pressure.