Garment workers from Lenny Fashions and Lenny Apparels, which ceased operations four years ago, staged a protest on the Nabinagar-Chandra Highway in Ashulia, demanding the settlement of their unpaid wages.
The blockade, which began at 7:30am on Tuesday (26 November), caused significant traffic congestion, forcing many drivers to use alternative routes.
The protesting workers stated that after the factories were closed, one was sold off by Bangladesh Export Processing Zones Authority (BEPZA), with the proceeds deposited in a bank. However, their outstanding wages remain unpaid.
One of the protesters remarked, "For four years, BEPZA has been giving us false assurances. On 9 September, they called and told us not to join any protests, promising to pay us by 30 November. Yesterday, they again deferred the payment without giving a specific date. Without a firm commitment, we will not vacate the highway."
Another worker, Md Azad, expressed frustration, saying, "Even though one of our factories was sold, we have not received our due wages. Some remnants of the previous authoritarian government are still obstructing justice. We demand the removal of these officials by the chief adviser and labour adviser. Unless BEPZA representatives come here and announce a payment deadline by 30 November, we will continue our demonstration on the road."
The blockade has led to severe traffic congestion on both sides of the highway, with many commuters opting for alternative routes.
Savhar Highway Police Station Officer-in-Charge (OC) Saugat Alam confirmed the situation, stating, "The workers have blocked the highway in front of DEPZ, causing a traffic jam. Commuters are using alternative routes to avoid the gridlock."
Police Superintendent of Ashulia Industrial Zone-1, Mohammad Sarwar Alam, commented, "The workers of Lenny Fashions and Lenny Apparels are protesting on the road. In the past, we managed to convince them to vacate the highway, and we are attempting to do the same today."
