A tragic road accident in the capital's Banani area has left a female garment worker dead and another injured. In response, garment factory workers have taken to the streets in protest, blocking major roads and causing severe traffic congestion in Banani, Mohakhali, and Gulshan.
The accident occurred around 6:00 am on Monday (March 10) near Banani Chairman Bari. Authorities have yet to determine which vehicle was responsible or the exact circumstances of the incident.
The deceased has been identified as Minara Akter, while the injured worker, Sumaiya Akter, has been admitted to Kurmitola General Hospital for treatment.
Reports from the scene indicate that protesting workers have blocked both sides of Chairman Bari Road and even disrupted traffic on the Elevated Expressway. This has resulted in major delays, affecting office-goers and daily commuters.
Anisur Rahman, a private-sector employee, shared his frustration: "I arrived at Mohakhali around 7:30 am to head to my workplace in Karwan Bazar, only to find no buses moving to or from Banani. Later, I learned that a pedestrian had died in an accident, leading to the suspension of bus services."
University student Al-Amin echoed similar concerns: "My class is at 11:00 am, but with the current road conditions, I doubt I'll make it on time. I might have to walk instead."
Hasib Hasan Khan, head of Traffic Safety and security at the Dhaka Elevated Expressway O&M Company, confirmed the blockage: "Garment workers have obstructed the expressway near Banani Chairman Bari, bringing operations to a halt."
Commenting on the situation, Banani Police Station Officer-in-Charge (OC) Russell Sarker said, "A worker was killed in an accident while crossing the road, following which the workers began their protest by blocking the roads."
