Traffic Chaos as People Walk to Their Destinations Ahead of Tarique Rahman’s Homecoming

Ahead of BNP’s Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman’s highly anticipated return to Bangladesh after 17 years of exile, Dhaka’s streets are facing severe traffic disruptions. Rahman’s homecoming on Thursday, December 25, 2025, is being marked by a grand reception, with millions of supporters gathering at a massive stage set up in the 300 Feet (Purbachal) area. This has led to widespread traffic congestion, leaving many commuters stranded and struggling to find transportation.

On the morning of December 25, roads leading to Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport, including Tejgaon, Mohakhali, Banani, Kurmitola, and Khilkhet, were filled with BNP supporters. As a result, ordinary commuters were seen walking to their destinations, with many trying to hire bikes or using CNG rickshaws. However, the number of available vehicles was limited.

Some passengers were even seen walking with their luggage in hand, unable to find a car or any other form of transportation. A few expatriates resorted to carrying their goods on their heads due to the lack of vehicles. One traveler, Cynthia Rahman, shared her frustration with Dhaka Post, saying, “I came by train from Mymensingh, but now I can’t find any bus to Mohakhali. There are no buses on the road, and the train was extremely crowded. I didn’t expect it to be this bad.”
 

Another passenger, Firoz, who was carrying his belongings on his head, said, “I’m heading to Narsingdi but can’t find any bus. All the buses near the airport are reserved. For now, I’m walking ahead to see if I can find a way.” He added, “It’s really troublesome; otherwise, I wouldn’t have to carry my things on my head.”
 

The long-awaited flight carrying Tarique Rahman is expected to land at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport at 12:00 PM. He will then head directly to the reception stage. A grand 48x36-foot stage has been set up at the 300 Feet area to commemorate his return. The stage construction began on Sunday afternoon and has been completed through tireless work. The security measures around the event have been heightened, with checkpoints set up at every corner to ensure safety.

BNP’s senior joint secretary and reception committee member, Ruhul Kabir Rizvi, expressed confidence that the event will see a turnout of up to 5 million people, calling it a “mass gathering” of supporters.