Bahaddarhat Bus Terminal: Transport workers demand immediate renovation

South Chattogram route transport workers observed a strike for two hours yesterday, demanding the renovation of Bahaddarhat Bus Terminal in the city.

Around 15,000 workers are dependent on this terminal for their daily bread. In a human chain formed during the strike, the workers warned of more serious steps if the authorities fail to start the renovation works by June 7.

As a result of the strike, many people had to suffer. Passengers were seen waiting at the terminal for a long time not sure when they would be able to find a vehicle.

"We have repeatedly requested Chattogram Development Authority and the terminal's management committee to start the works. We are aware of the inconveniences caused to commuters but were compelled to go on strike due to their inefficiency and negligence in this regard," said Mohammad Musa, general secretary of Arakan Road Transport Workers Union.

Public transportation in seven upazila routes, including Chattogram to Cox's Bazar and Bandarban, were halted during the strike, starting at 11:00am.

"Every monsoon, waterlogging at the terminal ground damages our vehicles, which in turn increases the chances of malfunctions and accidents. There are no toilets for workers or passengers, no lights and no one to guard the place at night," he said.

According to workers, the leasing authority has been collecting Tk 60 per day for each vehicle as fare and service charge.

"We pay CDA Tk 46 lakh every two years but they do not provide any service in return," said Hazi Mohammad Yunus, the lessee of the terminal and acting general secretary of the management committee.

CDA Chief Engineer Hasan Bin Shams said they are planning to relocate the terminal to Moizzar Teck. "No major renovation work will be done till the relocation. However, repair works are undertaken when necessary," he added.