Following a combined holiday stretch encompassing Eid-ul-Fitr and Pahela Baishakh, life in Dhaka is gradually returning to pace. Despite the reopening of offices, banks, courts, and stock markets today, the bustling streets of Dhaka displayed an unexpected calmness.
Early in the day, key areas including Jatrabari, Banani, Uttara, and Farmgate witnessed notably fewer vehicles and pedestrians compared to typical workdays. According to observations made between 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM by correspondents from various locations such as Airport, Shahbagh, Panthapath, Dhanmondi, and Mohammadpur, the presence of private cars, buses, motorcycles, CNG-run auto-rickshaws, and rickshaws was significantly reduced.
The subdued traffic levels can be attributed to many government and private sector employees who traveled out of Dhaka for the Eid break, opting to extend their leave. This trend of taking additional leave days following the official holidays has contributed to a slower restart of normal activities in the capital.
As the week progresses, traffic and public movement are expected to increase. With schools and colleges set to reopen next week, Dhaka is anticipated to regain its usual rhythm and activity levels. Meanwhile, city dwellers are taking advantage of the lighter traffic, navigating the streets with more ease than usual.