Dhaka, Feb 11 (V7N) — The Election Commission (EC) has imposed restrictions on several types of vehicles to maintain law and order during the 13th National Parliament Election and Referendum scheduled for Thursday (February 12). However, certain relaxations have also been granted for emergency and election-related services.

The EC said the directives were issued to avoid confusion among voters and ensure a peaceful voting environment.

Vehicles Prohibited

According to the EC decision:

  • Taxicabs, pickup vans, microbuses, and trucks will remain banned from midnight on Wednesday (February 11) to midnight on Thursday (February 12).

  • Motorcycles will be banned nationwide from midnight on Tuesday (February 10) to midnight on Friday (February 13), the day after the election.

However, motorcycles displaying Election Commission-approved stickers will be exempted from the ban.

Vehicles Allowed with Conditions

The EC has allowed certain vehicles to operate under specific conditions:

  • Vehicles of law enforcement agencies, armed forces, administration, and authorized observers

  • Vehicles engaged in emergency services

  • Vehicles transporting medicines, healthcare supplies, essential goods, and newspapers

  • Vehicles traveling to or from airports with valid tickets or proof

  • Vehicles carrying long-distance passengers

  • One vehicle for each contesting candidate

  • One vehicle for each election agent, provided they carry proper appointment letters or ID cards

Additionally, vehicles approved by the Returning Officer and displaying authorized stickers will be allowed to operate.

Motorcycles used by journalists, observers, election officials, and other authorized persons will also be permitted subject to EC approval.

Considering telecommunication services as emergency services, vehicles belonging to BTRC and BTRC-licensed organizations will be exempt from the restriction.

The EC has also delegated authority to the concerned District Magistrates and Metropolitan Police Commissioners to impose or relax restrictions on other vehicles as per the prescribed schedule.

Metrorail to Operate Normally

According to Dhaka Mass Transit Company Limited, Metrorail services will operate normally on polling day. The number of trains will be increased if necessary to facilitate voters’ movement.

END/SMA/AJ