Student-transporter clash in Barishal sparks transport strike

A clash between protesting students and transport workers in Barishal on Wednesday (August 13) disrupted bus services and intensified the ongoing health sector reform movement.

The confrontation took place at Nathullabad Central Bus Terminal, where students had been holding daily blockades from 11.00am to 4.00pm since last Thursday to press three-point demands for health sector reforms. The protests had already disrupted long-distance routes connecting Barishal with six districts and the capital.

According to eyewitnesses, tensions escalated around 3:30pm, following confrontations between students and transport workers. The students vacated the bus terminal after the clash, and the workers subsequently declared a counter-transport strike, halting bus operations.

Shahadat Hossain Liton, president of the District Road Transport Workers Union, said a driver named Mahim was beaten during the incident, prompting the workers to stop vehicle movement. “Discussions are underway to resume services,” he added.

Protester organizer Mohiuddin Roni claimed the clash was provoked to sabotage the movement and said students plan to continue protests at Amtala intersection on Thursday, excluding the bus terminal.

Airport Police Station OC Zakir Hossain Sikder confirmed the students left the area and that bus services remain suspended.