Train service via Jurain Rail Crossing resumes after rickshaw drivers clear tracks

Train services through Dhaka's Jurain rail crossing resumed on Friday afternoon after battery-run rickshaw drivers protesting on the tracks dispersed.

The protest began at 11 am, with over 200 rickshaw drivers blocking the rail line to demand permission for their vehicles to operate on the city throughfares. 

Kamalapur Railway Station Master Md Anwar Hossain said Dhaka-Narayanganj train services and Rajshahi- and Khulna-bound trains through the Padma Bridge resumed at 3 pm. 

Protesters lowered the railway barriers, causing traffic congestion in surrounding areas. Police attempted to negotiate with the group around 1 pm, but they refused to leave, witnesses said. 

Clashes broke out when protesters threw bricks at police, prompting officers to use tear gas and batons to disperse them. Train operations resumed after the situation was brought under control, they added.

Sub-Inspector Nazmun Nahar, Shyampur Police Station’s duty officer, had earlier said that since 11am, battery-run rickshaw drivers had been blocking the rail lines.

Police were working to bring the situation under control, he added.