Attack at Bridge Toll Plaza Leaves Three Injured

On Saturday evening, a violent incident occurred at the toll plaza of the Seventh China-Bangladesh Friendship Bridge over the Arial Khan River in Pakhira, Madaripur Sadar Upazila. Local sources and police reports indicate that the confrontation began around 7 pm when several young men on motorcycles attempted to cross the bridge.

Toll collection staff reportedly requested payment from the riders, which led to a verbal altercation between the two parties. The situation escalated when the youths allegedly armed themselves with makeshift weapons and attacked the contractor-operated toll office. During the attack, office furniture was destroyed, and three toll workers sustained injuries.

Police from Madaripur Sadar Thana were alerted to the incident and quickly arrived at the scene to bring the situation under control. However, the assailants’ identities remain unknown, and authorities are conducting investigations to identify and apprehend those involved.

Madaripur Sadar Model Thana Officer-in-Charge, Md. Adil Hossain, confirmed that the situation is now stable. He added that if the toll contractor formally files a written complaint with the police, legal action will be taken against the perpetrators.

Analysts note that such confrontations, even if brief, can pose significant risks to the safety of toll workers, motorists, and pedestrians alike. They suggest that more stringent monitoring and security measures at toll points are necessary to prevent similar incidents in the future. The incident also highlights the challenges of managing toll collection in high-traffic areas where disputes can quickly escalate into violence.

Local authorities are reportedly reviewing safety protocols at the bridge and considering increased police presence during peak hours to safeguard staff and commuters.