Barishal University students halt Dhaka-Kuakata traffic, issue 24hr ultimatum over infrastructure demands

Students of Barishal University (BU) blocked the Dhaka–Kuakata highway today (24 August), issuing a 24-hour ultimatum warning that if the University Grants Commission (UGC) and the Ministry of Education failed to engage with them regarding their demands for infrastructural development and three other issues, they would escalate the blockade across the southern region. 

The road was obstructed for nearly an hour from around 12:45pm, during which students were heard chanting various slogans, causing significant traffic congestion forcing many commuters to continue their journeys on foot to reach their destinations.

Photo: TBS

Students allege that despite the university being established 14 years ago, minimal infrastructure was available at its inception, and no substantial development has taken place since.

Ashik Ahmed, a student of the Department of Bangla, said, "Barishal University has consistently been deprived of its rightful resources. We have kept this movement confined within university premises for a long time. However, in the culture of Bangladesh, demands are seldom met without firm action."

He added, "We have taken our protest to the streets not to inconvenience the public, but to draw the state's attention so that it can make prompt decisions regarding the university's infrastructure development and land acquisition."

Mokabbel Sheikh, a student of the Department of Public Administration, added, "After the mass uprising, we have seen other universities receive development budgets. Yet Barishal University remains neglected, much like during the era of authoritarian rule. That is why we have chosen the streets. Once our demands are met, we will return home."