Postogola 3-wheeler drivers go on strike protesting toll hike

Drivers of CNG-run three-wheelers in Postogola Bridge area of the capital yesterday suspended their operation over the bridge protesting a hike of the toll.

The strike caused sufferings to thousands of commuters, many having to walk more than 1km.

The protesters shouted slogans against the hike, from Tk 10 earlier to Tk 25 now, gathering in the bridge area. The new toll chart was put into effect yesterday afternoon.

Some protesters said they would launch a movement today.

Aftab Ahmed, additional chief engineer of Roads and Highways Department (RHD), which is charging the toll, said the new toll rates were fixed by the cabinet.

According to the new chart, trailers which did not have to pay any toll earlier has to give Tk 750 now, heavy trucks Tk 240, medium trucks 225, big buses Tk 35, and mini-trucks Tk 170.

Earlier, all these trucks and buses were charged Tk 30.

The new toll amount was raised from Tk 20 to Tk 25 for minibus, from Tk 20 to Tk 75 for microbus, and from Tk 10 to Tk 25 for all motorised three- and four-wheelers.

The new chart also fixed Tk 15 for motorcycle and Tk 10 for rickshaw, van and pushcart. None of these vehicles had to pay tolls earlier.