CNG Autorickshaw Drivers Block Chittagong Road Over Prolonged Fuel Shortage
Photo Collected
CHITTAGONG — CNG-powered auto-rickshaw drivers blocked a major road in the Sholashahar area of Chittagong city on Friday morning to protest a persistent shortage of compressed natural gas (CNG) that has crippled local transport services.
The demonstration began at approximately 7:00 a.m. in front of the Fossil Filling Station, where scores of drivers had been waiting for extended periods to refuel. Frustrated by the lack of supply and the absence of clear communication from station authorities, the drivers obstructed the road, leading to localized traffic disruptions.
By 10:00 a.m., long queues of vehicles remained outside the station despite the relatively light traffic typical of a weekend morning. Many drivers reported waiting for more than 24 hours without success. One driver, Mohammad Hanif, expressed his desperation, noting that the inability to secure fuel for over a day has prevented him from working and left him uncertain about how to support his family.
Officials at the Fossil Filling Station stated that they are unable to dispense fuel due to a critical lack of supply from the utility provider. They added that there is no confirmed timeline for when the distribution will return to normal levels.
Local law enforcement intervened to clear the thoroughfare. According to Md. Jahedul Islam, Officer-in-Charge of the Panchlaish Police Station, the blockade lasted for roughly 15 to 20 minutes. Police teams were dispatched to the site to negotiate with the drivers, who subsequently cleared the road following discussions with authorities.
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