DHAKA, Feb 10, 2026 (BSS) - As the 13th national parliament election and referendum draw near, a festive mood has swept across the country with thousands of people travelling from the capital Dhaka to their village homes to take part in the democratic process.

The election and referendum will be held on February 12 next, prompting a mad rush  of the voters—especially garment workers, students, and professionals temporarily living in cities—to their respective constituencies. 

To facilitate participation, the government has declared general holidays on February 11 and 12, creating a four-day break with the coincidence of   the regular weekend. 

Educational institutions are also closed till February 15 due to the Hindu religious festival “Maha Shivaratri “, that leads further enjoying the travel.

As a result, passenger pressure on roads, railways, and waterways has surged. Heavy crowds have been reported at major transport hubs in Dhaka, including Gabtoli, Sayedabad and Mohakhali bus terminals, Kamalapur Railway Station, and Sadarghat Launch Terminal. 

Many travellers were seen returning home with families, luggage in hand and smiling for the joy of reunion after long absences.

Transport officials said passenger numbers have raised several times compared to normal days. Additional buses and trains have been arranged on multiple routes, as passengers are facing difficulties due to ticket shortages, traffic congestion, and overcrowding. 

In some cases, train travellers were seen standing or even riding on rooftops because of limited seat capacity.

At Kamalapur, counters of transport services such as Tisha Paribahan on the Dhaka–Cumilla route experienced heavy congestion. 

Counter manager Rafiq Mia said the rush has intensified since yesterday, as  many passengers purchasing tickets in advance. 

Touhidul Islam Majumder, a private-sector employee from Cumilla, told BSS he was heading toward home specifically to cast his vote.

To ensure safe and smooth travel, the law enforcement agencies have strengthened security across terminals and stations. 

Additional members of police, RAB, and Ansar have been deployed, while the Election Commission has assured all necessary support so voters can reach polling centres without disruption.

The nationwide movement reflects increasing public enthusiasm, turning the election into what many are describing a true ‘voting festival’.