The Gulistan area, one of the major points of the capital, on Sunday came to a standstill as anti-quota movement protesters staged a sit-in while on their way to Bangabhaban after being obstructed by the police.
The protesters began their march after 12pm from Shahbagh intersection to submit a memorandum to the president demanding protest against attacks on students, taking up cases, and once-and-for-all implementation of quota reforms and as it moved forward, traffic came to a standstill on surrounding roads of Gulistan, the busiest area of Dhaka.
People experienced difficulty reaching various destinations due to the blockade of roads, forcing them to walk from public transport.
At 3pm on Sunday, Gulistan Zero Point, Gulistan Bangabandhu Square intersection, and near Baitul Mokarram South Gate, traffic movement has been halted in the area. Traffic police are attempting to control vehicular movement.
From Hazaribagh, businessman Jahangir Alam left for home but faced a blockade when he reached Shahbagh around 11am. Later, he had to leave his car and proceed on foot.
He said, "All disruptions are for common citizens like us. For the past week, I have been unable to conduct any business properly. As soon as I step out, I encounter road closures and chaos."
Mahiuddin, a helper with Shikhar Paribahan, described his ordeal coming from Farmgate, he said: "I was stuck with the vehicle for nearly two hours after taking a turn. I slowly made my way to Gulistan."
He added that for several days due to the protest, he has been unable to operate the vehicle.
Students from various educational institutions in the capital, including Dhaka University, Jagannath University, and Dhaka College, participated in the march.
Upon leaving, the students faced police obstruction near the educational buildings. Overcoming police barriers, they entered the road leading to the Secretariat.
Upon encountering obstruction there, they announced a blockade plan at Zero Point. Shortly after, they stationed themselves at the Gulistan intersection. From there, ten student representatives went to the Bangabhaban to submit a memorandum.
