The government has given conditional permission to motorcyclists to cross the Padma Bridge ahead of Eid-ul-Fitr, warning that if the conditions are not met, the movement of motorcycles on the bridge will be stopped again.
This was informed in a press release signed by Sheikh Walid Faiz, senior information officer of the Ministry of Road Transport and Bridges, on Tuesday.
It says: “Motorcycle riders can ply the Padma Bridge by paying the prescribed toll and must use the designated toll booth. They will be able to cross the Padma Bridge through the left-side service lane. Under no circumstances can the designated lane be changed. No overtaking is allowed. The maximum speed has been set at 60kmph.”
Both driver and rider are required to wear appropriate safety gear, including a helmet.
Standing or taking photos on the bridge is not permitted under any circumstances.
One motorbike can accommodate a maximum of two riders, including the driver.
The Bangladesh Bridge Authority has specially requested everyone to use the Padma Bridge by following these conditions. The permission will be revoked, if the rules are not followed.
On June 27 last year, the Bridge Division under the Ministry of Road Transport and Bridges banned the operation of motorcycles on the 6.15km bridge.
The Padma Bridge was opened for traffic the day after its inauguration on June 25, 2022.
A large number of motorcycles crossed the bridge on the first day. Allegations of crossing the bridge by bike in exchange for money were also raised.
Meanwhile, two people were killed in a motorcycle accident that night. When a video of the accident spread on social media, discussion and criticism started.
The next day, the government banned the movement of motorcycles on the bridge.