Bangladesh: Government shuts down internet access nationwide August 4 /update 2

Event

Bangladesh authorities blocked mobile internet access across the country on Saturday, August 4, according to local media reports. The move is seen as an effort to combat ongoing student protests that have shut down portions of Dhaka and resulted in violent clashes with security forces. According to a local newspaper, 3G and 4G internet services were shut down beginning Saturday evening (local time) and expected to last until at least Sunday evening (local time), August 5. A senior official at the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission confirmed the government order to "slow down" the internet. Non-mobile access has not been affected, according to media reports.

Protests began and remain concentrated in Dhaka, particularly the Shahbagh area, though demonstrations were reported in nearby cities, including Gazipur, Narayanganj, Mymensingh, and Chittagong. Further protests are expected in the coming days. Heightened security and widespread traffic disruptions are anticipated in the coming days.

Context

Protests began on July 29 after two students were killed in an accident caused by speeding passenger buses. Tens of thousands of students have shut down areas of Dhaka every day since then, resulting in violent clashes on Saturday between the protesters and security forces. At least 115 people were wounded, likely by rubber bullets and tear gas, according to hospital officials.

According to the private research group National Committee to Protect Shipping, Roads, and Railways, more than 4200 pedestrians were killed in road traffic accidents in 2017.

Advice

Individuals in Bangladesh, especially in Dhaka, are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid all protests and large public gatherings as a precaution, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities. Travelers are advised to anticipate significant transportation disruptions in the coming days, to plan for alternative routes avoiding demonstrations, and to never attempt to cross a roadblock without authorization.