Gas outage sparks protest, Dhaka–Chattogram highway blocked

Agitated residents blocked the Dhaka–Chattogram highway at the capital’s Rayerbagh–Shonir Akhra area on Sunday (February 1) after gas supply remained cut for seven consecutive days, causing severe traffic congestion and public suffering.

The blockade began around 12:45pm, bringing traffic to a standstill in both directions and leaving thousands of commuters stranded.

Office-goers, long-distance passengers and goods-laden vehicles faced acute disruption as queues of vehicles stretched for kilometres.

Protesters said gas supply in the area has been completely shut for a week. Despite repeated complaints to the concerned authorities, no effective steps have been taken, they alleged.

The prolonged outage has severely disrupted daily life, including cooking and other household activities.

Many families, residents said, have been forced to rely on alternative fuels, which are both costly and risky. They added that the road blockade was launched to draw the authorities’ attention, warning that the protest would be intensified if gas supply is not restored promptly.

Police rushed to the spot and are trying to bring the situation under control.

Sajedur Rahman, assistant superintendent of police (traffic) of the Demra zone, said locals took to the highway after enduring a seven-day gas outage in Rayerbagh and Shonir Akhra.

Multiple police teams are working to ease the situation, he added. However, protesters remain adamant that they will not withdraw the blockade until they receive a clear assurance on the resumption of gas supply.