Eid journey home: Dhaka-Sylhet highway a major concern

As millions prepare to leave the capital for Eid-ul-Fitr celebrations, the Dhaka–Sylhet highway has once again emerged as one of the most critical concerns for homebound travellers. Despite ongoing preparations by authorities, fears of severe congestion, long delays, and commuter suffering persist along this vital corridor.

The Dhaka–Sylhet route, part of the country’s N2 national highway, connects the capital to the northeastern region and serves passengers travelling to Sylhet, Sunamganj, Moulvibazar and Habiganj. Every year during Eid, this highway experiences intense pressure—but this year, the situation appears even more challenging due to ongoing construction and infrastructure limitations.

According to Highway Police, at least 43 congestion-prone points have been identified along the approximately 209-kilometre stretch between Dhaka and Sylhet. Key bottlenecks include areas such as Kanchpur, Bhairab, Brahmanbaria and Osmaninagar, where traffic flow is frequently disrupted.

One of the most problematic segments remains the Ashuganj–Bishwaroad stretch in Brahmanbaria. This 12-kilometre portion is undergoing slow-paced expansion work, often leading to hours-long traffic jams. Damaged road conditions, potholes, and narrow lanes further aggravate the situation, forcing vehicles to crawl and creating long tailbacks.

Authorities have acknowledged the challenges. Officials from the Roads and Highways Department say that only around 20 percent of the six-lane expansion project has been completed so far. While temporary repairs have been carried out and traffic management measures strengthened, the unfinished construction continues to hinder smooth travel.

In addition to construction delays, several other factors are likely to worsen congestion during the Eid rush. Unauthorised roadside markets, illegal parking, and random stopping of buses and CNG auto-rickshaws contribute to traffic disruption, particularly in busy intersections like Bishwaroad and Ashuganj.

Transport experts warn that travel time on this route—typically around five to six hours—could double or even triple during peak Eid days, stretching to 12–15 hours in extreme cases.

Meanwhile, pressure is already building at key exit points from Dhaka. Areas like Jatrabari, a major gateway to several highways including the Dhaka–Sylhet route, have started experiencing congestion as the Eid exodus gains momentum.

To mitigate the situation, authorities have deployed additional highway police and introduced measures to keep at least two lanes operational in construction zones. Restrictions on heavy vehicles and improved coordination among agencies are also part of the plan. However, given the scale of travel demand and persistent structural issues, commuters remain sceptical.

For many, the journey home during Eid is not just travel—it is an emotional return to family and tradition. Yet, the recurring challenges on the Dhaka–Sylhet highway continue to turn that journey into a test of endurance.

Unless long-term infrastructure upgrades are completed and traffic discipline enforced, the highway is likely to remain a major concern during every festive season.