Protesters blocked Shahbagh intersection on Friday demanding the construction of a bridge between Bhola and Barishal.
After gathering in the area, they announced a march towards Jamuna, the residence of the Chief Adviser.
Demonstrators began arriving at Shahbagh after Jummah prayers, marching from different parts of the capital. Police placed barricades on the Shahbagh–Bangla Motor road and took up position to prevent any escalation.
Ismail Sumon, one of the protesters, told Times of Bangladesh that a bridge is essential for people travelling between Bhola and Barishal.
“We suffer immensely,” he said. “We rely entirely on launch services to cross the river. Night travel becomes almost impossible. Even bringing someone to Dhaka for medical treatment often requires waiting an entire day.”
He added that most protesters are either residents of Bhola or people who had already been living in Dhaka for work.
Traffic movement remains suspended in the Shahbagh area.
