Auto-rickshaw drivers protest power cuts, police harassment
Photo: Agamir Somoy
Auto-rickshaw drivers blocked the road in front of the National Press Club, Dhaka over several demands, including halting the disconnection of power at auto-rickshaw charging points, stopping traffic police harassment, and ending vehicle dumping.
After ending the blockade in front of the Press Club, they brought out a protest procession from Dainik Bangla Intersection to Paltan on Monday, chanting, “Give food! Give clothes! Or let auto run!”
The rallies caused severe traffic jams on roads across Dhaka.
Earlier on Sunday, loudspeakers in various parts of Dhaka announced that auto-rickshaw movement would remain suspended on Monday. Following the announcement, fewer auto-rickshaws were seen on the roads Monday morning in areas including Rampura, Badda, Malibagh, Khilgaon, Motijheel, Mirpur, and Mohammadpur.
The shortage increased pressure on public transport, especially in areas where passengers rely on auto-rickshaws for short-distance travel.
Auto-rickshaw Owner Worker Unity Council President SM Abu Bakar said, “Just as the residents of Dhaka want to see Dhaka city traffic-free, we also want to present Dhaka as a beautiful and disciplined metropolis. For this, let the government sit with us; whatever cooperation the government wants, we are ready to provide.”
Auto-rickshaw drivers alleged that they are unable to operate their vehicles because electricity connections used for charging batteries in various rickshaw garages have been disconnected and their daily earnings have decreased as a result.
They added that they will continue their movement until their problems, including the restoration of power connections, are resolved. Meanwhile, protesting drivers are harassing non-participating drivers who operate auto-rickshaws, including puncturing their vehicle tires.
