CNG Chaos: Drivers Block Banani Road Demanding Route Expansion
CNG-run auto-rickshaw drivers staged a protest by blocking the road in front of the Bangladesh Road Transport Authority (BRTA) headquarters in Dhaka’s Banani area, demanding permission to operate additional vehicles beyond the current limit of 3,000 Dhaka Metro-registered CNGs.
The demonstration began around 12:00 PM on Sunday, July 13, when drivers occupied the road in front of the BRTA's main office, causing a complete halt in traffic along the Mohakhali-Banani route and triggering severe congestion on surrounding roads.
Protesting drivers stated that their primary demand is the formal allocation of specific routes for CNG-run auto-rickshaws.
Many of the demonstrators were seen wearing shrouds, symbolizing the gravity of their protest. While they allowed ambulances and airport-bound vehicles to pass, they barred all other vehicles from moving.
The protesters declared that the movement would continue until their demands are met.
Regarding the protest, Banani Police Station Officer-in-Charge (OC) Russel Sarwar said, “The CNG drivers are protesting by blocking the Dhaka-Mymensingh Road in Banani. This has brought traffic to a standstill. Police are trying to control the situation. Their demand is to allow more CNGs to operate beyond those with Dhaka Metro registration.”
The OC further added, “We’ve spoken to both the protesters and BRTA officials. They said the matter depends on the ministry’s decision. A letter has been sent, and we’ll know more once the ministry responds.”
