Garment workers in Gazipur blocked the Dhaka-Tangail highway again on Saturday morning during a protest, bringing vehicular movement on both sides of the road to a complete standstill. The blockade caused severe traffic congestion, leaving commuters stranded for hours.

Workers' Protest and Blockade

According to eyewitnesses and local sources, workers gathered at various points on the highway from early morning. They chanted slogans demanding their rights and sat on the road, forcing authorities to halt traffic. Long queues of vehicles formed on both sides of the highway, and emergency service vehicles were also reported to be stuck in the gridlock.

Commuters Face Severe Hardship

The blockade triggered massive traffic jams in key areas of Gazipur, including Chandra, Board Bazar, Mawna, and Tongi. Office-goers and other commuters faced immense suffering, with many forced to wait on the road for extended periods. Local business owners also reported significant losses due to the disruption.

Law Enforcement on Scene

Upon receiving the news, police and other law enforcement agencies rushed to the spot. They attempted to bring the situation under control, but the road was not cleared immediately. Police were seen trying to persuade the workers to vacate the highway.

Background

Over the past few weeks, garment workers in various industrial areas of Gazipur have staged multiple protests and road blockades, demanding higher wages, bonuses, and better working conditions. Each time, the blockades have severely disrupted traffic and normal life in the region. This latest incident highlights the ongoing labor unrest in the area.

Next Steps

Law enforcement and local administration are working to control the situation. Sources indicate that steps are being taken to understand the workers' demands and resolve the issue. However, no official announcement regarding the withdrawal of the blockade had been made until the time of this report.