Auto-rickshaw drivers staged a demonstration and blocked the road in front of National Press Club in the capital on Monday.
They took up positions on the road after 10:30am to press home a set of demands.
Participating in the blockade, auto-rickshaw driver Millada Miah said they blocked the road in protest disconnection of electricity connections at auto-rickshaw charging locations, alongside several other demands.
He affirmed that they would not vacate the road until their demands were met.
Another auto-rickshaw driver, Sumon, alleged that traffic police frequently harass auto-rickshaw drivers and send auto-rickshaws to dumping grounds.
He further complained that whenever an auto-rickshaw is seized, a case with a fine of Tk5,000 is imposed on them, demanding an immediate end to all such harassment.
The protesters added that auto-rickshaws must be permitted to run on roads where they are allowed to operate, and that harassment of auto drivers must cease.
Pointing out that many people across the country earn their living by driving auto-rickshaws, they urged that legal action be taken in accordance with the law if auto-rickshaws are operated illegally.
Commenting on the situation, Ramna Division Deputy Commissioner Zahidul Islam said police forces are on alert to ensure that no disorder arises from the drivers’ gathering.
