Commuters in Dhaka faced severe hardship on Monday as battery-run auto-rickshaw drivers went on strike over several demands, disrupting transport across parts of the capital.
Auto-rickshaw movement was largely suspended from Monday morning in Dholai Khal, Dayaganj, Jatrabari, Rampura, Banasree, Badda, Mirpur, Dholai Para and surrounding areas.
Several auto-rickshaws operating during the strike were reportedly vandalized and obstructed, with drivers supporting the protest taking positions at key intersections across the capital.
Although a few auto-rickshaws were seen on the roads, they were stopped by protesting drivers.
The drivers said they called the strike to protest high licence fees under the government's new policy and a provision limiting each driver to operating no more than five auto-rickshaws.
Around 9am, auto-rickshaw drivers gathered in a procession at South Jatrabari intersection, chanting slogans over their demands.
The sudden suspension of services left office-goers, students and other commuters stranded. Many were seen waiting at intersections for transport, while some were forced to walk long distances to reach their destinations.
No details were immediately available on steps taken by the authorities to restore normal transport services.
