RAJSHAHI, Feb 9, 2026 (BSS)- Ahead of the 13th National Parliamentary Election and referendum scheduled for February 12, the Rajshahi Metropolitan Police (RMP) has imposed strict restrictions on the movement of vessels and various types of vehicles within the metropolitan area.

The restrictions were confirmed on Sunday through a notification signed by RMP Commissioner Dr Zillur Rahman.

According to the notification, the movement of launches and engine boats will remain suspended from midnight before polling day-12:00 a.m. on February 11-until midnight at the end of polling day on February 12. However, engine boats operating regularly on designated routes will be exempted.

The ban will also not apply to vessels used as a means of transport for voters and the general public.

During the same period, the movement of taxi cabs or cars, pickups, microbuses, and trucks will be restricted. In addition, all types of motorcycles will remain prohibited from midnight on February 10 until the night of February 13, the notification said.

Considering public interest and emergency needs, the RMP has provided several exemptions. Vehicles belonging to law enforcement agencies, the armed forces, the administration, and authorised observers will remain outside the scope of the restrictions.

Vehicles engaged in emergency services, including those transporting medicines, health and medical supplies, and newspapers, will also be allowed to operate without restriction.

The restrictions will further be relaxed for vehicles used to travel to or from airports to receive or drop off relatives, or to return home with passengers, provided that valid tickets or relevant documents are shown.

Long-distance passenger vehicles, as well as vehicles used locally by long-distance passengers, will also remain exempted.

The notification further said that, subject to approval from the Returning Officer and the display of official stickers, one small vehicle will be permitted for each contesting candidate and one for each election agent, provided they carry appointment letters or identity cards.

Similarly, with the Returning Officer's approval, vehicles and motorcycles used by journalists, observers, and for emergency purposes will be allowed to operate.

With approval from the Election Commission, motorcycles may also be used by officials and employees engaged in election duties or other authorised individuals.

Considering telecommunications services as essential, vehicles belonging to the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) and BTRC-licensed organisations will also be exempt from the restrictions.

Moreover, the restrictions will not apply to vehicle movement on national highways, port areas, and important roads, highways, and connecting routes used for inter-district travel or travel outside the metropolitan area.

The notification warned that appropriate legal action would be taken against anyone violating the order issued in the public interest.