Dhaka, Bangladesh – The ongoing labor unrest in Bangladesh’s garment industry has led to the closure of 219 factories, according to local media reports. The shutdowns come in the wake of escalating protests by workers demanding higher wages, bonuses, and attendance allowances.
Of the affected factories, 86 garment factories have been closed indefinitely, with management citing the disruption caused by persistent strikes and protests. In an attempt to prevent further unrest, an additional 133 factories have granted temporary leave to their employees.
The protests, which have gained momentum in recent weeks, have created significant challenges for the management, as workers demand better pay and working conditions. The country’s “News Age” service reported that despite the widespread closures, production activities in 88 factories located within the Dhaka Export Promotion Zone have continued, though under tight security.
To ensure the safety of these facilities and to prevent the protests from escalating into violence, additional police teams have been deployed outside the factories. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation as tensions remain high in one of Bangladesh’s most vital economic sectors.
The garment industry, which plays a crucial role in Bangladesh’s economy and employs millions, has been under pressure for some time, with workers calling for fair compensation amid rising living costs. The recent unrest could further strain an already fragile industry, which has faced global challenges in recent years.
As the protests show no signs of slowing down, it remains unclear how long the shutdowns will last or what steps the government and factory management will take to address the workers’ grievances.
