Readymade garment (RMG) workers blocked the Dhaka-Tangail highway in Gazipur's Konabari area on Thursday morning, demanding an immediate wage hike. The blockade has brought vehicular movement on the busy route to a standstill, causing severe traffic congestion in both directions.

Workers' Protest and Factory Closure

According to local sources, a large number of workers gathered on the highway in the morning and began demonstrating. They sat on the road, halting traffic and demanding a prompt revision of their pay structure. The protest has disrupted commuters and freight movement along the vital artery connecting the capital with the northern districts.

In response to the escalating situation, the authorities of MM Knitwear Limited, located in Konabari, have announced an indefinite closure of the factory starting today. The decision was confirmed in a report by Business Standard, which stated the move was taken "to avoid any untoward incidents."

Recurring Unrest

New Age reported that this is not the first time garment workers have resorted to blocking the Dhaka-Tangail highway in Gazipur. Similar protests have occurred previously over wage-related demands. Today's blockade marks a fresh wave of agitation by the workers, who have vowed to continue their movement until their demands are met.

Law and Order Situation

Additional police forces have been deployed to the protest site to maintain order. As of the latest reports, no clashes or violent incidents have been reported. Local administration and factory management are reportedly attempting to initiate dialogue with the protesting workers to resolve the impasse.

Next Steps

No official statement has yet been issued by the factory authorities regarding the workers' demands. Worker leaders have announced that the agitation will persist until a satisfactory wage revision is announced. Highway police have advised commuters to use alternative routes to avoid the gridlock.