The Election Commission (EC) has announced a ban on several types of vehicles across the country ahead of polls.
Taxicabs, pickups, microbuses, and trucks will be prohibited from Wednesday midnight until Thursday, which is the day of voting.
Motorcycles are subject to a more extended restriction, starting from Tuesday (10 February) midnight until Friday midnight. However, motorcycles carrying official EC stickers are exempt from this ban.
Exemptions and emergency services
The restrictions will be relaxed for law enforcement agencies, the armed forces, the administration, and authorised observers. Emergency services, including vehicles used for healthcare, medicines, and the delivery of newspapers, will remain operational.
Travel to and from the airport is permitted for passengers and their relatives, provided they can show tickets or similar proof of travel. Additionally, long-distance passenger vehicles and local transport used by long-distance travellers will be allowed to move.
Candidate and media access
Each contesting candidate and their election agent (provided they have proper appointment letters/ID) may use one small vehicle, such as a jeep, car, or microbus. These vehicles must have approval from the returning officer and display a valid sticker.
Journalists, observers, and officials or employees engaged in election duties may also use vehicles and motorcycles, subject to EC or returning officer authorisation.
Telecommunications and highways
The EC has classified telecommunication services as emergency services. Consequently, vehicles belonging to the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) and its licensed organisations will be exempt from the restrictions.
Furthermore, restrictions are relaxed on national highways, ports, and major roads used for entering or exiting inter-district and metropolitan areas.
Metrorail to increase frequency
The Dhaka Mass Transit Company Limited (DMTCL) has confirmed that the Metrorail will operate normally on the day of the polls.
To facilitate the movement of voters, the number of train trips will also be increased.
