A large-scale blockade has been enforced since Sunday morning along key points of the Chattogram–Cox’s Bazar highway, as locals and activists demand its expansion from two lanes to six. The protest, organised under the banner of the “Chattogram–Cox’s Bazar Highway Development Movement,” has caused significant disruption to traffic and highlighted long-standing concerns over road safety and congestion in the southern region.
By 9:30 am, demonstrators had occupied the Amirabad area in Lohagara, chanting slogans and holding banners, creating a tailback stretching over a kilometre. Residents said the narrow two-lane highway frequently leads to accidents and causes substantial delays, particularly for people travelling to and from tourist destinations along the southern coast.
In Chakaria, protesters gathered near the Matamuhuri Bridge from 10:00 am, carrying banners and festoons, and vowed not to disperse until their demands were addressed. Police officers were present at both sites, maintaining order, and confirmed that the demonstrations remained largely peaceful.
Ibrahim Faruk Siddiqui, one of the participants, stated that the protest would continue until 4:00 pm but assured that emergency services would not be obstructed. Movement organiser Tamim Mirza explained that the blockade had been necessary because the government had not provided a clear response to previous memorandums and human chains organised by local residents.
Officer-in-Charge Salauddin Chowdhury of Dohazari Highway Police Station confirmed that the matter had been communicated to higher authorities and that appropriate action would be taken according to instructions from senior officials.
A summary of the protest is outlined below:
| Location | Start Time | Duration Planned | Main Demand | Authorities’ Response |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lohagara, Amirabad | 9:30 am | Until 4:00 pm | Six-lane highway expansion | Police monitoring; higher authorities informed |
| Satkania | 9:00 am | Until 4:00 pm | Six-lane highway expansion | Same as above |
| Chakaria, Matamuhuri Bridge | 10:00 am | Until 4:00 pm | Six-lane highway expansion | Same as above |
The demonstrations have underscored widespread frustration among residents, commuters, and transport operators who rely on the highway for daily travel. Authorities have pledged to review proposals for road expansion, with feasibility studies and project planning reportedly underway. Protesters have indicated that they will continue their movement until concrete action is taken to improve the highway, highlighting the urgent need for infrastructure development in the region