Savar Workers Block Highway Over Unpaid Wages

Commuters faced severe disruption on Tuesday night after workers of State Fast Courier Service staged a protest on the Dhaka–Aricha Highway in Savar, demanding the immediate payment of overdue salaries and festival bonuses. The demonstration caused major traffic congestion during peak evening hours, leaving travellers stranded and frustrated.

Details of the Protest

The protest began around 9:30 pm near the Rajfulbaria Bus Stand, when several hundred workers gathered on the highway. According to participants, the company had failed to pay salaries and Eid bonuses within the scheduled timeframe, sparking widespread anger among employees.

In a show of frustration, the workers occupied both lanes of the highway, halting the flow of traffic. Vehicles in both directions were forced to come to a standstill, resulting in a long tailback that extended for several kilometres. Many passengers reported being delayed for hours, while some public transport services were temporarily suspended due to the blockade.

Police Intervention

Arman Ali, Officer-in-Charge of Savar Model Police Station, confirmed that the authorities were notified shortly after the protest began. Police officers arrived at the scene and engaged with the workers, negotiating to ease tensions. By 10:15 pm, the protesters had cleared the roadway, allowing traffic to resume normal movement.

Ali stated that the police continue to facilitate dialogue between the workers and the company management, with discussions focusing on resolving the wage and bonus disputes. No arrests or injuries were reported during the incident, and the protest remained largely peaceful despite the significant disruption.

Company and Worker Reactions

While the company has yet to issue a formal statement, workers expressed determination to continue pressing for their financial rights until all overdue payments are made. The incident has drawn attention to ongoing labour grievances in the courier and logistics sector, highlighting the vulnerability of employees in private service industries when contractual obligations are delayed or ignored.

Impact on Commuters

Commuters faced extensive delays due to the unexpected blockade. Public transport operators reported cancellations and rerouting of services, and motorists expressed frustration over the lack of advance warning. Residents in the vicinity noted that the highway, a key artery connecting Dhaka with northern districts, is particularly sensitive to disruption, especially during evening hours.

Key Facts of the Incident

Conclusion

The Savar highway blockade underscores the tensions arising from delayed payments in the private sector and the critical role of labour rights advocacy. While the protest was resolved without violence, it exposed the vulnerability of both workers and commuters when contractual obligations are neglected. Authorities and company management face growing pressure to ensure timely remuneration and prevent similar disruptions in the future.