Eid Travel Chaos: Bangladesh Bus Fares Skyrocket by Over 100%

Passengers in Bangladesh face soaring bus fares as Eid-ul-Fitr approaches. Many operators have more than doubled ticket prices on key routes, with little oversight. Travellers are now paying hundreds of taka extra per trip, sparking widespread frustration.

A recent investigation by the Bangladesh Jatri Kalyan Samity found that 87% of buses and minibuses are ignoring official fare rules. Between March 14 and 18, 2024, monitors identified 1,247 vehicles charging inflated rates. Some local buses and trucks are even overcharging without considering seating capacity or fuel costs.

Fares on popular routes have surged dramatically. A Dhaka-Pabna ticket, previously priced at Tk 550-600, now costs Tk 1,200. Passengers are also being forced to buy tickets for longer distances due to seat shortages. The samity estimates that excess fares on long-distance trips alone could reach Tk 122 crore, with each traveller paying an average of Tk 350 extra. Around 4 million inter-district and long-route bus trips, plus 6 million city service journeys, are expected during the holiday. Total excess spending may hit Tk 148 crore. The samity claims fare structures already cover staff salaries, allowances, and Eid bonuses—but many operators fail to pay these. The group has accused transport companies of 'holding passengers hostage' with unfair pricing. They warn that unchecked fare hikes could push up general prices, fuel extortion, and destabilise communities.

Millions of passengers will travel during Eid, facing fares that have more than doubled on some routes. The Bangladesh Jatri Kalyan Samity has raised concerns about financial strain and broader economic risks. Without intervention, the surge in transport costs is likely to continue.