Sylhet, Sep 12 (V7N) - A violent confrontation erupted between traders and CNG drivers in front of the City Market at Bandar Bazar in Sylhet. The clash, which occurred from 1:30 PM to 2:15 PM on Thursday, September 12, resulted in approximately 20-25 people being injured. The violence also led to the vandalism of 25-30 vehicles and five shops. By 3 PM, the police were preparing to mediate between the two conflicting groups.
 
Witnesses report that the dispute had been brewing over issues related to the parking of auto-rickshaws and passenger pick-up and drop-off in front of the City Super Market. The situation escalated when a disagreement arose between an auto-rickshaw driver and the shopkeepers. The argument grew physical, with other auto-rickshaw drivers joining in and the confrontation intensifying. The shopkeepers managed to drive the auto-rickshaw drivers away, leading to a series of violent acts, including stone-throwing. The auto-rickshaw drivers retaliated by vandalizing five shops, while the shopkeepers damaged 25-30 vehicles.
 
Following the clash, auto-rickshaw drivers blocked the Bandar Bazar area, keeping the roads obstructed until the latest update at 3:30 PM.
 
The conflict has resulted in mutual accusations. Traders claim they have long prohibited auto-rickshaw parking and passenger operations in front of the City Market, with similar instructions from the City Corporation. Despite these directives, the auto-rickshaw drivers reportedly continued their activities, leading to frequent disputes. When discussions were attempted, the auto-rickshaw drivers allegedly became aggressive and vandalized the shops.
 
Conversely, auto-rickshaw drivers claim they were seeking a resolution meeting when they were attacked by the traders. They have stated that they will continue to block the roads until their demands are addressed.
 
Sylhet Metropolitan Police (SMP) Additional Deputy Commissioner Shahriar Alam (Sadar and Administration, Additional Charge - North) confirmed that police arrived at the scene and managed to control the situation. The police will conduct a meeting with both sides to prevent further public disruption.

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