A large group of protesters blocked the toll plaza at the southern end of the Padma Bridge in the early hours of Tuesday, 10 November 2026. The blockade stopped toll collection, left vehicles stranded and caused tension in the Zajira area of Shariatpur.
What Happened at the Zajira Toll Plaza
Leaders and activists of the activity-banned Awami League and its affiliates, Jubo League and Chhatra League, held a demonstration by blocking the Padma Bridge’s south toll plaza early on 10 November. The protesters carried wooden poles and boat oars and took positions on the Dhaka-Bhanga Expressway in front of the plaza.
Crude Bombs and Vandalised Vehicles
Police say more than 100 crude bombs were detonated during the blockade, and vehicles were vandalised. Reports say two trucks were damaged. No injuries were mentioned in the reports reviewed.
Slogans Heard During the Blockade
Videos on social media show a large crowd in front of the toll plaza. Protesters could be heard chanting “Joy Bangla” and “Joy Bangabandhu”, along with slogans invoking ousted former prime minister Sheikh Hasina and former Shariatpur-1 lawmaker Iqbal Hossain Apu.
How Long Traffic Stayed Stuck
Reports differ slightly on the duration. One report says toll plaza operations stayed suspended for nearly an hour. Toll plaza employees put the disruption at about half an hour. Traffic was affected in both directions, for vehicles heading to Dhaka from the south-west and those heading south-west from Dhaka.
Police Response and Dispersal
Abdus Salam, officer-in-charge of Padma Bridge South Police Station, said hundreds of Chhatra League activists gathered suddenly from different directions with logs and oars. He said law enforcement agencies later chased them and dispersed the demonstration. One report says the main gate of Padma South Police Station was reportedly closed and officers stayed inside as the crowd gathered. The incident took place near the police station, a military cantonment, the bridge’s service area and the toll plaza.
Why the Padma Bridge Matters
The Padma Bridge links Dhaka with the south-western districts, so even a short blockade at either toll plaza can back up traffic for kilometres. Freight trucks, passenger buses and private cars all depend on this route, which is why any stoppage is felt quickly.
Security Concerns After the Incident
The blockade shows how quickly a crowd can gather near a major national road. Authorities are likely to increase patrols around the Zajira end and the expressway. Travellers should expect extra checks and possible delays in the coming days.
Travel Advice for Commuters
- Check local traffic updates before leaving, especially for night travel.
- Keep extra time for the Padma Bridge route.
- Follow instructions from police and traffic officers on the road.
- Avoid stopping your vehicle near the toll plaza if a crowd gathers.
