Bus services from Rajshahi to other destinations, including Dhaka, remain suspended for the second consecutive day following a clash with CNG drivers, causing suffering to passengers.
Since this morning, no buses have been operating from Rajshahi to Dhaka or other destinations, reports The Business Standard.
The disruption began on Monday when bus operations were suspended for six and a half hours, from noon until night.
Although services resumed briefly at night, they were halted again early this morning at 4am.
Liton, an employee at the Rajshahi counter of Desh Travels, said, "After the six-and-a-half-hour suspension yesterday, buses were allowed to operate at night. However, from 4am today, bus operations were halted again. Passengers who purchased tickets in advance are being refunded. It is unclear when bus services will resume."
Mainul Islam, who came from Kakonhat in Rajshahi to collect his ticket refund, said, "I purchased a ticket for today's 12pm bus. Since buses are not operating, I travelled from Kakonhat for a refund."
According to workers, yesterday morning, several bus drivers were attacked and beaten up by CNG drivers. Among them, two critically injured individuals were admitted to Rajshahi Medical College Hospital.
In protest, bus services have been suspend,
Nazrul Islam Helal, acting general secretary of the Rajshahi Bus Owners' Association, said, "Five of our workers are critically injured and are currently undergoing treatment at Rajshahi Medical College Hospital. Among them, two are in critical condition, and one has been admitted to the ICU. We have a meeting with the Rajshahi Metropolitan Police commissioner at 11am. We are hopeful that we will reach a decision in that meeting."
Rafiqul Islam Tota, president of the Rajshahi District Motor Workers' Union, stated, "A case has been filed against 40 to 50 individuals, and two have already been arrested. We demand proper safety for our workers. It is unacceptable for workers to be assaulted while operating buses to upazilas."
Bd-pratidin English/Fariha Nowshin Chinika
