Workers staged a demonstration and locked the main gate to oppose an increase in transport fares at the Ishwardi Export Processing Zone (EPZ) in Pabna.
Ishwardi Police Station Officer-in-Charge (OC) Asadur Rahman confirmed the matter on Saturday. Around 1,500 workers and employees collectively walked out of factories between 7:30am and 9am, demanding the immediate withdrawal of the hiked fares.
During the demonstration, workers chanted slogans against various irregularities, corruption, and the arbitrary nature of the management. The protesters said the monthly transport fare had been increased by Tk500 without any consultation with the workforce, even though salaries have not been raised.
They added that they work long hours for low wages, from which they must now pay higher commuting costs. Demanding a swift reversal of the fare increase, the workers said salary and bonuses must be increased. Otherwise, a larger movement will be launched.
OC Asadur stated, “There is dissatisfaction among the workers regarding transport fares. For this reason, they held a protest march. Currently, the situation is normal.”
Attempts were made to contact the Executive Director of Ishwardi EPZ by telephone for a statement, but he did not answer the call.
