20 Nov 2019 | 02:05 AM UTC
Bangladesh: Transport unions strike in multiple districts as of November 20
Truck and bus drivers in at least 20 districts launch an indefinite strike on November 19 to protest the Road Transport Act; significant transportation disruptions reported in some areas
Event
Multiple unions representing truck and bus drivers announced indefinite strikes on Tuesday, November 19, in protest of the newly enforced Road Transport Act (RTA). Industrial actions have been ongoing since Sunday, November 17, when the RTA came into effect. Significant transportation disruptions were reported in the districts of Jessore, Khulna, Bagerhat, Satkhira, Magura, Narail, Jhenaidah, Meherpur, Kushtia, and Chuadanga on Tuesday. Thousands of passengers were stranded, and similar disruptions are expected to extend to other districts on Wednesday, November 20. Truck drivers have also announced that they will indefinitely halt the transportation of commodities nationwide starting at 06:00 (local time) on Wednesday until their demands are met, including amendments to the RTA.
Associated protests are also possible throughout Bangladesh over the coming hours and days. Earlier on Tuesday, police officers dispersed truck drivers who were blocking the Dhaka-Mymensingh highway near Mawna for over two hours. Similar demonstrations may occur on major roadways, including in Dhaka. Significant transportation disruptions, particularly to public bus services, are expected for the duration of the strikes.
Context
Transport owners and workers claim that the RTA was drafted without consulting truck or bus drivers. The groups are calling for the government to amend the law and lower fines for route permits and taxes. Under the RTA, drivers can receive the death penalty if they are involved in a road accident that results in fatalities and face high fines if someone is injured. Drivers are arguing that they will be unable to pay the associate fines which are significantly higher than their annual salaries.
Advice
Individuals in Bangladesh, including Dhaka, are advised to monitor developments to the situation, anticipate significant transportation disruptions, plan alternative modes of transportation, and avoid all protests as a precaution.
