Dhaka: Farmers blocked the Lalmonirhat-Burimari highway for approximately half an hour on Sunday, demanding sufficient fertilizer supply and an end to alleged 'syndicates in the fertilizer trade.'
According to United News of Bangladesh, the protest began when farmers placed tree trunks on the highway in front of a Bangladesh Agriculture and Fertilizer Association warehouse in Mahendranagar around 11 am. The farmers claimed they were not receiving an adequate supply of fertilizer during the crucial farming season, which hindered their ability to apply it to their fields in a timely manner.
The blockade resulted in long queues of vehicles accumulating on both sides of the highway. However, the farmers decided to lift the blockade after about 30 minutes, following assurances from the district administration that their concerns would be addressed.
In response to the protest, the deputy commissioner, superintendent of police, upazila nirbahi officer, and local chairman visited the site. Lalmonirhat Deputy Commissioner Md Rashedul Hoque Prodhan stated there is no fertilizer shortage in the district. He assured that authorities would investigate and take appropriate action if any specific allegations of irregularities were reported.