Bus service from Rajshahi to Dhaka suspended over wage demands

Bus workers have suspended services from Rajshahi to Dhaka from this morning (8 September), demanding higher wages and allowances.
 

The suspension has caused suffering for passengers travelling to the capital, although Ekota Paribahan and some local buses are still operating.

During a visit to the Shiroil bus terminal in Rajshahi this morning, it was found that several major operators—including National Travels, Desh Travels, Hanif Enterprise, Gramin Travels and Shyamoli Travels—were not running their buses.

Workers said that for a round trip to Dhaka, drivers currently receive Tk1,200 and helpers Tk600, with an average of 12 to 14 trips a month. 

Three staff members, including a driver, helper and supervisor, share only Tk100 per trip for food costs.

They have demanded Tk2,000 for drivers, Tk1,100 for supervisors and Tk1,000 for helpers for each round trip, along with Tk200 for hotel rent and Tk100 per person per meal.

They also called for an annual Eid bonus.

Reza, a helper at National Travels, said, "We are given only Tk600 for one round trip. But our expenses per trip are Tk200. So, our earning per trip is Tk400. If we get 14 trips a month, our monthly income is Tk5,600. How can we run a family on this salary?"

Bus driver Liton added, "With the money we are given each month, we cannot even eat one kilogram of beef a month. With the salary they give, how will I run my family and educate my children?"

Another worker said, "Ekota Paribahan pays more, so their workers are operating their buses. We are not operating our vehicles because our salary is low."