RMG workers block Arakan Road in Ctg for 5 hours over unpaid wages, overtime
The protesting workers alleged that one and a half months of wages and four months of overtime remain unpaid.
Thousands of ready-made garment (RMG) workers blocked the busy Arakan Road in Chattogram for five hours today (2 May), demanding payment of outstanding wages and overtime bills.
The blockade, which began at around 11am in the city's C&B area, caused severe traffic congestion and brought vehicle movement to a standstill on one of the city's most busiest thoroughfares.
Sub-Inspector Md Shahnewaz, in-charge of the Mohra police outpost under Chandgaon Police Station, told The Business Standard that the protesters withdrew the road blockade after factory owners assured them that wages and overtime dues would be paid by Wednesday.
Keep updated, follow The Business Standard's Google news channel
Following the withdrawal of the blockade, traffic on Arakan Road gradually returned to normal, and the long traffic congestion also eased. However, the workers warned that they would resume their protests if their demands are not met within the stipulated time.
The protest involved nearly 2,000 workers from two factories, including the Azim Group's located in the Kalurghat BSCIC Industrial Area.
According to the agitating workers, the management has been irregular in paying salaries and allowances since 2025.
They alleged that one and a half months of wages and four months of overtime remain unpaid.
Eyewitnesses reported incidents of chase and counter-chase between the police and the protesters when law enforcement moved in to bring the situation under control.
A large contingent of law enforcement personnel had been deployed in the factory areas as the demonstration continued late into the afternoon.
Kazi Md Bidhan Abid, assistant commissioner (Panchlaish) of Chattogram Metropolitan Police, confirmed that the unrest stems from long-standing grievances.
"The workers stated that the management of Azim Group has kept salaries and overtime bills pending. This problem has persisted since 2022," he said.
The protestors claimed that management threatened them with termination whenever they raised the issue of their dues.
The protest escalated in the Mohra area as workers from Orchid Sweater and Savar Sweater joined the demonstration at the C&B intersection.
The blockade caused immense suffering for commuters and locals, forcing many passengers to abandon their vehicles and travel on foot.
The movement of goods-laden vehicles from other factories in the industrial zone was also halted.
