Padma Bridge toll collection hits Ramadan high as Eid holidaymakers head home

Traffic volume has surged at the Mawa end of the Padma Bridge in Munshiganj as Dhaka residents begin their exodus to south-western districts before Eid-ul-Fitr.

While the flow of heavy and light vehicles remained steady on Monday morning, a significant influx of motorcycles was observed starting from midday.

To manage the pressure, authorities have deployed 17 regular toll booths across both the Mawa and Zajira ends, supplemented by three additional booths specifically for motorbikes.

Bridge officials reported that the prompt processing at the booths has ensured a smooth crossing for travellers so far.

Facilities including toilets, safe drinking water, and medical teams have been stationed at the site to assist passengers during the rush.

Nabil Hossain, assistant engineer (toll) of the bridge, told bdnews24.com that 9,965 vehicles crossed the Mawa end alone between 6am and 3pm, generating Tk 11.2 million in revenue.

“Across both ends, a total of 16,528 vehicles were recorded in those nine hours, with total toll collection reaching Tk 20.29 million,” he said.

“This is the highest daily collection recorded during this year’s Ramadan,” he added.