At least 20 people were injured after two groups clashed over control of a CNG-run auto-rickshaw and battery-powered three-wheeler stand in Bahubal, Habiganj, on Sunday.
The incident took place around noon on the old hospital road in Bahubal Bazar, following a dispute between drivers from the two sides over control of the transport stand and local dominance.
According to police and local residents, a longstanding dispute had been simmering between the two groups over the CNG and three-wheeler stand in the Bakultala area of Bahubal Bazar. Tensions resurfaced on Sunday when drivers from both sides became involved in an argument over the disputed stand.
The verbal altercation gradually escalated. At one point, people from both groups reportedly became involved in a physical confrontation, with some carrying locally made weapons. The clash continued for nearly an hour.
During the confrontation, both sides allegedly threw bricks and other objects at each other, adding to the tension in the busy market area. At least 20 people were injured in the violence.
Local residents later rescued the injured and took them to Bahubal Upazila Health Complex and other hospitals in the area for treatment. The identities and detailed medical conditions of those injured were not immediately available.
The incident caused tension in and around the market, prompting police to intervene. Officers from Bahubal police station reached the scene after receiving information about the clash. With the assistance of local community representatives, police brought the situation under control.
Bahubal police station Officer-in-Charge (OC) Ruhul Amin Talukdar confirmed that the clash followed an argument between the two groups over the CNG and three-wheeler stand.
He said police reached the scene after being informed of the incident and took steps to restore order.
The dispute appears to have centred on control of the transport stand and influence over its operations. Such disputes can quickly affect movement in busy market areas, particularly where several types of local transport use the same points for picking up and dropping off passengers.
Police intervention brought the immediate confrontation to an end, although details of any further legal action in connection with the incident were not immediately available.
