Hartal observed in Rajshahi for gas

Rajshahi Gas Andolon Parishad, an organisation supported by ruling BNP leaders, professionals, social and cultural workers, called the hartal. Workers of BNP and its front organisations were seen picketing during the hartal hours.

The Awami League, Rajshahi Rakkha Sangram Parishad and different trade organisations extended their support to the hartal.

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The AL leaders also demanded resignation of city mayor and BNP lawmakers from Rajshahi for 'their failure to ensure supply of natural gas'.

All modes of transport were off the roads during the shutdown. Not even a bicycle was seen on the road. All educational institutions and markets remained closed. However, activities at railway stations and airport were normal.

Work at the government and non-government offices and banks were hampered to a great extent.

Some newsmen were also harassed by the pickets.

At a rally at the Zero point, the AL leaders said Mayor Mizanur Rahman and other lawmakers from the district pledged many times that they would take steps to ensure supply of gas, but it will now be supplied to Bogra only.

They also threatened to wage a tough movement if gas was not supplied to Rajshahi in this fiscal.