Workers from TNZ Group in Maleker Bari, Gazipur City, have blocked the Dhaka-Mymensingh Highway over three months of unpaid wages, resulting in a 20-kilometer traffic jam.
The blockade, which began on Saturday around 8:45am, continued as of the latest reports on Sunday morning at 9am.
Deputy Commissioner (Traffic) of Gazipur Metropolitan Police, Ibrahim Khan, said: “The workers' protest, which started on Saturday, continued throughout the night. Workers have been blocking the highway for almost 24 hours, causing a 20km traffic from Tongi to Rajendrapur. Passengers traveling on the highway are using alternative routes.”
In addition, the GMP's official Facebook page provided a traffic update urging commuters to use alternative routes.
The update said: “Dear passengers using the Dhaka-Mymensingh and Dhaka-Tangail highways, please be informed that garment workers have been blocking the highway in front of Columbia Garments, between Bhogra Bypass and Maleker Bari, since Saturday morning, demanding unpaid wages and benefits. The blockade remains in effect (as of 7am). We request passengers to use alternative roads.”
Witnesses reported that some outsiders with sticks joined the protesting workers as well.
Several goods-carrying trucks stuck in traffic are transporting perishable items. Many bus passengers have attempted to reach their destinations on foot or by alternative means, leaving numerous buses standing empty.
Abdul Qadir, waiting at the Mauna Intersection in Sreepur to board a bus to Dhaka, said: “I’ve been standing here since morning to go to Dhaka. They are asking for Tk150 just to go to Joydebpur Intersection, but other buses are saying they will only go as far as Rajendrapur. The rest of the way is jammed. I am really worried now.”
Sarwar Alam, superintendent of police for Gazipur Industrial Area, said: “We have held multiple discussions with the workers. We have also assured them that their overdue wages will be arranged quickly in consultation with the owners. However, the workers refused to lift the blockade, citing previous unmet promises from the owners.”
