Motorcyclists and drivers blocked the Dhaka–Khulna highway on Thursday afternoon after a local filling station reportedly stopped selling fuel.
The protest began around 2:45 PM in the Mandartala area. Protesters placed tree logs across the road, halting traffic for approximately one hour and creating a two-kilometer tailback on both sides of the highway.
Local drivers alleged that the filling station had sufficient stock but stopped sales without warning. Rumors circulated among the crowd that the suspension stemmed from a dispute between station management and the local administration.
"We have been waiting since morning. They have fuel, but they aren't selling it. We won't move until the pumps are opened," said one protesting motorcyclist.
The filling station owner denied claims of a fuel hoard or administrative disputes. He attributed the shutdown to a manpower crisis, claiming staff were exhausted from the previous day's shift and were unable to report for duty on Thursday.
Police arrived at the scene shortly after the blockade began. Officers managed to persuade the protesters to clear the logs, restoring traffic flow by approximately 3:45 PM. Authorities are currently mediating between the station owners and transport workers to ensure fuel distribution resumes smoothly.
