Heavy crowds of people traveling to attend the janaza of former prime minister and BNP chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia led to severe congestion at all metro rail stations in the capital on Wednesday (Dec 31), with every train packed to capacity.
Many passengers were seen waiting for long periods at stations due to the pressure of the crowds.
The janaza of Begum Zia was held at the South Plaza of the Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban at 3pm. From early morning, hundreds of thousands of people from different parts of the capital and across the country chose the metro rail as their main mode of transport to attend the large gathering.
On-the-spot observations showed a surge of passengers, particularly at Secretariat, Shahbagh, Farmgate, and Bijoy Sarani stations. Long lines were seen at ticket counters and punching gates. Passengers were observed standing in orderly queues, purchasing tickets and trying to reach their destinations.
A large number of passengers was also noticed at Bijoy Sarani and Farmgate stations on the return journey following the janaza.
To ensure security amid the heavy passenger pressure and the janaza, MRT Police intensified activities at metro rail stations from the morning. MRT Police Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Siddiqi Tanjilur Rahman said that additional police were deployed from 9:00am as passenger turnout increased.
He said special monitoring arrangements were put in place at key stations, including Bijoy Sarani, under the supervision of senior officers.
The DIG added that although temporary congestion occurred due to the time required for ticket purchases and the punching process for a large number of passengers, the overall situation remained normal and under control. He also said the security measures would remain in force until the afternoon.