Dhaka, June 5 -- As Eid approaches, many people are risking their lives to reach their hometowns by travelling on open trucks and pickup vans, in addition to using buses and private vehicles.

Alongside severe traffic congestion, travellers have been left drenched and distressed, first scorched by the blazing sun and then soaked in a downpour.

On Thursday afternoon, heavy rain lashed the Dhaka-Tangail highway, following hours of intense heat and humidity that had already left home-bound passengers exhausted.

A visit to the Dhaka-Tangail-Jamuna Bridge highway revealed crowds waiting for transport. More private cars and motorcycles were seen on the road than buses.

With a shortage of public transport and soaring fares, many have resorted...