Smooth tracks ahead: Kamalapur paints an orderly, smooth picture this Eid

Eid journeys by train in Bangladesh often evoke images of overwhelming crowds, frantic shoving, and an atmosphere teetering on chaos. For many, the annual voyage home has been less of a celebration and more of a grueling ordeal—a test of patience and perseverance.

This year, however, Kamalapur Railway Station, the beating heart of rail travel in Dhaka, paints a different picture – one of discipline, calm, and punctuality that promises passengers a stress-free start to their Eid celebrations.

Visiting the station today (28 March) - the fifth day since the Railway started Eid ul-Fitr train services - this correspondent witnessed no overcrowding, rushing or jostling.

As passengers step into Kamalapur station, they are greeted not by chaotic scenes of overcrowded platforms but by an organised environment.

Ticket checks at the entrance ensure that only those with valid tickets gain access, eliminating the presence of unauthorised individuals and restoring a sense of order.

Speaking to The Business Standard, a member of the Railway Police reported a largely peaceful atmosphere since the morning, a stark contrast to the frenzied rush that travelers have come to dread.

They said there was a little pressure in the morning, but there was no rush. Over time, that pressure has decreased.

Photo: TBS

The calm isn't accidental; it's the fruit of meticulous planning and execution.

Station Master Anwar Hossain revealed that this year's Eid rail travel began on the 24th, with every train running on schedule, almost without exception.

Noting that the station is operating like a well-oiled machine, he said, "Passengers are arriving in sync with their train schedules. Trains are also leaving on time, so there is no extra crowd at the station.

"In addition, no passenger is being allowed to enter the station without a ticket, so no unwanted people are getting a chance to enter. An orderly atmosphere prevails inside."

"Our efforts are focused on ensuring passengers reach their destinations safely," Hossain said.

"We are working tirelessly to maintain smooth operations, and so far, it has been successful," he added.

Photo: TBS

This year's approach has also addressed ticketing challenges. For passengers unable to secure online tickets, counters at the station are offering standing tickets for 25% of capacity.

Additional tickets are available directly from train officials for an extra Tk50 charge, providing flexibility while maintaining control.

Safety has been a priority as well, with police and RAB patrols actively monitoring the station to address any potential disruptions. Their presence, along with the disciplined environment, has reassured passengers of a secure journey.

Such punctuality has not only smoothed operations but also softened the experience for travelers.

Mohammad Imon, a passenger on the Silk City Express, shared his satisfaction: "We boarded the train without any hassle. It's peaceful inside—no overcrowding, no pushing. It feels like a proper journey, not a struggle."

He was, however, a bit sceptical as there is a fear of the crowd increasing at the next stations.

"But who knows what will happen at the airport and Joydevpur stations. We are more afraid of Joydevpur because the garment factories have announced a holiday from today. But if there is no trouble there, it seems we will be able to return home with peace of mind this time," said Imon.

Md Sohag, a seasoned Eid traveler, is also surprised by the improvements.

Sohag, who was set to travel on the Sirajganj Express, said, "I was expecting chaos, but what I found was calm and discipline. It's a far cry from the mismanagement of previous years."

"I left home a little early, thinking there might be a traffic jam on the road. But the road was empty, so I quickly reached the station. 

"I was surprised. There was no excessive crowd, everything was orderly. I also saw that the guards here were behaving very well and were cooperating. I hope this time it will be a comfortable journey," he added.

Like the previous four days, a total of 70 trains, including 43 intercity trains and five special trains, will leave Dhaka for other districts.