Bangladesh: Unionized bus drivers' strike causing disruptions to some bus services in Kushtia April 7

Event

Bus drivers affiliated with the Kushtia District Bus-Minibus Coach Owners Association have suspended bus services from Kushtia to Faridpur and Khulna April 7 due to the alleged mistreatment of bus drivers by the workers' union. Organizers have threatened to expand the strike to all bus routes from Kushtia April 10 if authorities do not take action. Unless averted, the work stoppage will likely cause the suspension of bus services on multiple routes connecting Kushtia to other cities, including Dhaka and Jashore.

Although organizers have not announced specific plans for such gatherings, participating bus service employees could hold demonstrations during the labor action period. Such gatherings are possible near bus depots, government buildings, public squares, and major roadways. Authorities will likely monitor any gatherings that may materialize and could move to disperse those that become overly disruptive. Confrontations between protesters and police cannot be ruled out.

Kushtia is approximately 112 km (70 miles) north-northwest of Khulna.

Advice

Confirm all bus service schedules in Kushtia District during the work stoppage. Seek alternative transport, if needed. As a standard security precaution, avoid any protests that may materialize. Leave the area at the first sign of any security disturbance. Allow extra time for travel in the district for the duration of the strike. Heed all official transport and security advisories.