Bangladesh

Driving permit

You need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to drive in Bangladesh.

Get an IDP before you leave Australia.

Road travel

Violent protests and demonstrations occur in Dhaka and other districts. This includes on the main airport road.

These events can cause major traffic delays and disruptions.

Monitor local media. Follow the advice of local authorities.

You’re twice as likely to die in a motor vehicle accident in Bangladesh as in Australia.

Travel is dangerous. Fatalities are common.

Dangers include:

• congested roads
• chaotic traffic
• drivers overtaking other vehicles when it’s unsafe

Head-on collisions are common.

Risks are higher at night and outside the major cities.

Cars, buses and trucks often drive at high speed either:

• without headlights
• with headlights at full beam

Many rickshaws and CNGs are unlit at night, and are difficult to see in the dark.

Most rural roads are built up due to monsoon floods. Road shoulders can have a 2m to 3m drop.

Monsoon floods can also damage roads and make them impassable.

Traffic accidents, even minor ones, often attract large crowds of onlookers. This can quickly get out of control and turn violent.

Other issues that can increase accident risks and severity include:

• people sitting on the roofs of buses and trains
• severe overcrowding inside vehicles

If you intend to drive in Bangladesh:

• get to know local traffic laws and practices
• check the news for road closures
• keep your car windows and doors closed and locked at all times
• don’t drive at night if possible

If you’re involved in an accident, immediately contact police and follow their instructions.

More information:

Motorcycles

Australian High Commission staff are instructed not to use motorbikes.

Check whether your travel insurance policy covers you when using a motorbike, quad bike or similar vehicle.

Always wear a helmet.

Taxis

Australian High Commission staff are instructed not to use taxis or ride-sharing service due to safety concerns.

Only use registered taxis and limousines. Try to book these through your hotel.

Public transport

Australian High Commission staff are instructed not to use public transport.

Travel by bus may be unsafe due to:

• unqualified and uninsured drivers
• poor vehicle maintenance
• high-speed driving
• overcrowding

Train travel can be unsafe due to:

• broken tracks
• many unauthorised and unmanned crossings

More information:

Boat travel

Overloading can occur on river craft, including ferries. Boats may also not have life-saving equipment on board. People die in major accidents.

Piracy occurs in coastal areas.

More information:

Air travel

Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport has extra security measures.

Check Bangladesh’s air safety profile with the Aviation Safety Network.

DFAT doesn’t provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

More information:

Read the original advice at SmartTraveller.gov.au by Australian Government