Photo: Collected

DHAKA, March 15, 2026 (BSS) - The government has decided to strengthen the Electronic Toll Collection (ETC) system to ensure fast and smooth movement of vehicles on the Padma Multipurpose Bridge, Jamuna Bridge and Muktarpur Bridge ahead of the Eid-ul-Fitr and Eid-ul-Azha to facilitate smooth travel for people.

The decision was taken at a special coordination meeting held at the conference room of the Bridge Division today.

The meeting was chaired by the Secretary of the Bridge Division and Executive Director of the Bangladesh Bridge Authority Mohammad Abdur Rouf.

In his address, the Bridge Division Secretary said the government has undertaken various initiatives to modernize the country’s communication system. 

As part of that effort, steps are being taken to implement the ETC system on different bridges under the Bangladesh Bridge Authority in accordance with the directives of the Ministry of Road Transport and Bridges.

He said maximum use of ETC lanes will be ensured at toll plazas during Eid to make travel easier for homebound passengers.

Measures have also been taken to keep ETC lanes fully functional so that drivers can pay tolls quickly and cross the bridges without interruption.

During the meeting, the Chairman (Additional Responsibilities) of the Bangladesh Road Transport Authority assured that the authority would provide full support in implementing the ETC system. 

Leaders of transport associations and representatives of transport owners also pledged their cooperation.

The meeting also decided to expedite the installation and registration of RFID tags in both commercial and private vehicles with the support of BRTA and transport owners’ associations. 

To facilitate the process, integrated service booths will be set up at major bus terminals.

Additionally, instant recharge facilities through mobile financial services will be ensured so that drivers and passengers can conveniently top up their toll accounts.

The Bridge Division Secretary said ensuring comfortable journeys for people travelling home during Eid is a top government priority. 

Strengthening the ETC system using modern technology will help reduce long traffic jams at toll plazas.

He expressed hope that coordinated efforts by all stakeholders would help ensure congestion-free and comfortable travel on the Padma, Jamuna and Muktarpur bridges during the Eid holidays.

Senior officials of the Bridge Division and Bangladesh Bridge Authority, the BRTA Chairman (Additional Responsibilities), leaders of transport associations, representatives of transport owners and various mobile financial service providers attended the meeting. 

Officials from the site offices of the respective bridges also joined the meeting and reviewed field-level preparations.