Protest over phone registration rules brings Agargaon roads to standstill
Protesters are seeking NEIR reform, an end to alleged syndication, and wider access to mobile phone imports
Severe traffic congestion gripped Agargaon and nearby areas today (7 December) after mobile traders blocked the road in front of the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC), demanding reforms to the National Equipment Identity Register (NEIR) system and other issues, leaving commuters stranded for hours.
According to Dhaka Metropolitan Police's Tejgaon Traffic Division, movement on the key corridor came to a halt from the morning, with long tailbacks stretching toward the National Archives, Shyamoli, and Shishu Mela. Many passengers were forced to leave vehicles and walk to their destinations.
The blockade began around 10am under the banner of the Bangladesh Mobile Business Community. As of 4pm, when this report was filed, traders were still occupying the road.
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Along with NEIR reforms, the protesters are demanding an end to alleged syndication and the opening up of mobile phone import opportunities.
They said excessive taxes have disrupted sales in the mobile market. The 57% tax on imported handsets has pushed prices to an abnormal level, affecting both consumers and traders.
Traders also pointed to delays in phone registration, complications in the NEIR process and devices being blocked due to incorrect IMEI numbers. These long-standing issues, they said, have now pushed frustration to a breaking point.
Assistant Commissioner (Sher-e-Bangla Nagar Zone) Zakir Hossain said police have diverted vehicles through alternative routes.
"Agargaon's traffic has put heavy pressure on surrounding roads. Several areas are now experiencing congestion. We are trying to keep traffic as normal as possible," he said.
