Dhaka, Dec 24 (V7N)- The toll plaza of the airport elevated expressway, which provides entry into Dhaka city, will remain toll-free for the general public for a limited period on Thursday (December 25).

According to a message issued by the Press Wing of the Chief Adviser on Wednesday, toll collection will be suspended from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm.

The decision comes ahead of the return of BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman, who is scheduled to arrive in Dhaka on December 25 after spending more than 17 years in exile. His flight is expected to land at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport at 11:55 am.

Following his arrival, Tarique Rahman is scheduled to travel from the airport to Evercare Hospital via the 300-foot road to visit his mother, former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia. He will later proceed to his residence in Gulshan.

Meanwhile, party sources said that Tarique Rahman will have a series of engagements over the next two days. On Friday, after Jumma prayers, he is expected to visit the grave of former President Ziaur Rahman, followed by paying tribute at the National Martyrs’ Memorial.

On Saturday, he is scheduled to visit the Election Building to enlist his name in the voter list. He will also visit Pangu Hospital to meet those injured during the July movement and later pay respects at the grave of Inqilab Manch leader Osman Hadi.

Authorities said the temporary toll exemption has been arranged to facilitate smooth traffic movement during this period.

END/SMA/AJ