Landowners and business proprietors affected by the land acquisition for the Jhenaidah-Jashore highway expansion project (to be upgraded to six lanes) staged a protest on Wednesday morning, demanding fair compensation. The demonstrators blocked the highway by burning tyres, bringing traffic to a standstill for nearly an hour.
The blockade at the main Kaliganj bus stand caused severe traffic congestion, leaving thousands of buses, lorries, and even ambulances stranded on both sides of the road, significantly disrupting public life. Hundreds of people from various walks of life participated in the protest.
Affected landowners, including Shahidul Islam, Badruzzaman, Zohurul Islam, and municipal councillor Anwar Hossain, spoke at the demonstration. They alleged that compensation was being calculated based on 2022 land prices, despite significant increases in land value over the past three years. For example, land currently worth Tk 1 million is being compensated at only Tk 200,000. They also criticised the authorities for offering partial compensation for roadside buildings and businesses, which they deemed unjust.
As the traffic situation worsened, Kaliganj Upazila Nirbahi Officer Didarul Islam arrived at the scene and assured the protesters of discussions with the Deputy Commissioner. Following this assurance, the protesters withdrew the blockade, allowing traffic to resume.
