People return to routine as Bangladesh’s election holidays end

The extended break, announced to facilitate voting and ensure law and order, covered the election day and adjacent days, giving many people a rare opportunity for rest and travel.

With the holiday now over, government and private offices reopened, banks resumed transactions and educational institutions prepared to restart classes.

In the capital, traffic gradually picked up from early morning as commuters returned to work.

Although congestion was lighter than usual in some areas due to staggered reopening schedules, the familiar rush-hour rhythm was largely restored by midday.

Public transport services, including buses and ride-sharing vehicles, were operating normally.

At Kamalapur Railway Station, officials said train services were running according to schedules after operating on a limited timetable during the holiday period.

Launch terminals also reported regular services on major river routes, with many passengers returning to Dhaka after spending time with families in their home districts.

Markets and shopping centres reopened, drawing steady crowds.

Traders in New Market and other commercial hubs said sales were moderate but expected to increase in the coming days as supply chains stabilise and wholesale markets operate at full capacity.

Banks and financial institutions resumed full-fledged operations following special arrangements during the election. Bangladesh Bank officials said transaction volumes were expected to rise as government offices and businesses reopened.

ATM booths remained operational throughout the holiday, ensuring uninterrupted access to cash.

In several districts, local administrations reported a peaceful environment after the polls.

Law enforcement agencies maintained patrols in sensitive areas during the holiday to prevent any untoward incidents.

Officials said the overall situation remained stable, allowing residents to move freely and resume daily activities without disruption.

Educational institutions, many of which were closed for the election and holiday, announced plans to restart academic activities from Monday.

University authorities in Dhaka and other major cities said classes and examinations would proceed as scheduled unless otherwise notified.

Transport operators expressed optimism about the return of regular passenger flow.

Bus owners said the holiday period saw a surge in inter-district travel, particularly ahead of the election, followed by a steady return of passengers to urban centres.

With offices reopening, they expect commuter numbers to normalise within a day or two.

Industrial areas also began returning to routine production cycles.

Factory managers in key manufacturing zones said workers reported back after the break and supply deliveries resumed.

Export-oriented industries are working to ensure shipment schedules remain on track.

The Election Commission earlier expressed satisfaction over the overall conduct of the polls, noting voter turnout and the peaceful atmosphere in most parts of the country.

Observers said the smooth transition from election day to regular workdays reflected institutional preparedness and coordination among authorities.

Citizens voiced mixed feelings about the extended holiday.

While many welcomed the chance to spend additional time with family, some small business owners said prolonged closure affected daily earnings.

However, most agreed that the break contributed to a calm environment during and after the vote.

Security officials said they would continue monitoring the situation in the coming days, though no major incidents were reported following the announcement of results.

Patrols and checkpoints in certain areas will be gradually scaled back depending on the assessment of local conditions.

As the workweek resumes, attention is shifting to post-election priorities, including administrative continuity and economic activity.

With offices open, transport moving and markets active, daily life appears to have regained its usual pace after the polls and the four-day vacation, reports UNB.