Bridge Division targets smoother Eid travel through expanded ETC use
Authorities have moved to ensure swift and uninterrupted vehicle movement through the toll plazas of Padma Multipurpose Bridge, Jamuna Bridge, and Muktarpur Bridge during Eid-ul-Fitr and Eid-ul-Azha 2026, following a high-level coordination meeting held today.
The meeting, convened at the Bridge Division conference room, resolved to further expedite and streamline toll collection by expanding the use of electronic toll collection (ETC) lanes.
Bridge Division Secretary and Bangladesh Bridge Authority Executive Director Mohammad Abdur Rouf presided over the proceedings.
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Senior officials from the Bridge Division and Bangladesh Bridge Authority, the BRTA chairman (additional charge), leaders of transport associations, representatives of transport owners, and mobile financial service providers attended. Officials from site offices of the respective bridges also participated, outlining field-level preparations.
In his remarks, Mohammad Abdur Rouf noted that the prime minister has directed authorities to modernise the nation's communication system. He added that the road transport and bridges adviser and the relevant state minister were actively working towards this goal and had provided necessary guidance.
He reaffirmed the authorities' commitment to implementing electronic toll collection on bridges operated by the Bangladesh Bridge Authority, in line with government directives and public expectations.
The BRTA chairman (additional charge) assured full cooperation in rolling out the ETC system. Leaders of transport associations, representatives of transport owners, and mobile financial service providers also pledged their support.
To facilitate smooth travel for holidaymakers during Eid, authorities will keep ETC lanes fully operational at all toll plazas, enabling drivers to cross bridges swiftly after paying tolls.
Integrated service booths will be established at bus terminals, in coordination with BRTA and transport owners' associations, to enable rapid installation and registration of RFID tags on commercial and private vehicles. Instant recharge facilities via mobile financial services will also be available, allowing travellers to conveniently top up their toll accounts.
"Ensuring a comfortable journey for those travelling home during Eid is one of our top priorities. We are determined to reduce long queues at toll plazas through the use of modern technology, particularly ETC. All concerned parties must collaborate to deliver better service for the public. This technology-driven initiative will help ensure smoother, more comfortable, and congestion-free travel on the Padma, Jamuna, and Muktarpur bridges during Eid," said Mohammad Abdur Rouf.
