Mobile phone traders in Dhaka’s Karwan Bazar staged a road blockade on Wednesday afternoon, causing severe traffic disruption and widespread inconvenience to commuters, residents, and businesses in the area. The protest began at approximately 5:30 pm near the Sark Fountain intersection, bringing all vehicular movement to a standstill.
The traders were demanding reforms to the National Equipment Identity Register (NEIR), the elimination of what they described as a monopolistic syndicate system, and the introduction of open import opportunities for mobile phones. According to the demonstrators, these issues have long restricted business operations and hindered the normal flow of trade, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises.
Eyewitnesses reported that, as the blockade commenced, protesters placed pieces of wood and bamboo on the road and set them alight while chanting slogans to press their demands. There were also allegations that some participants attempted to damage vehicles to increase pressure on authorities. The actions led to heightened tension in the vicinity, further worsening the already critical traffic situation.
Traffic at the Sark Fountain intersection came to a complete halt due to the blockade. Public transport, private cars, and goods vehicles remained stranded for extended periods, causing major difficulties for passengers and drivers alike. Many commuters were forced to walk long distances to reach their destinations, while others remained stuck in vehicles amid growing frustration. Local shopkeepers reported a significant drop in customer activity, adding to the disruption of normal business operations.
Assistant Commissioner of Police (Tejgaon Zone) Mohammad Akkach Ali confirmed that traffic had been completely suspended at the Sark Fountain intersection because of the protest. He stated that police units were deployed at the scene and were working to manage the situation, aiming to restore normal traffic flow while ensuring the demonstration remained peaceful.
The protesting traders explained that they have been raising these demands for a considerable period without satisfactory response. They claimed that the current NEIR system, alongside syndicate dominance and restricted import options, has created unnecessary barriers, making it difficult for many traders to operate successfully. They warned that such protest actions would continue until their demands were addressed.
Authorities, including the police and administrative officials, confirmed that measures were being taken to normalise the situation, resume traffic, and engage in dialogue with the traders. However, it remains uncertain how quickly a resolution will be achieved or to what extent the traders’ demands will be met.
As the blockade extended into the evening, the disruption to daily life around Karwan Bazar continued to intensify, highlighting the significant impact that street protests in major commercial areas can have on urban transport and economic activity.