SYLHET: The dawn-to-dusk hartal, called by Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP)-led 20-party-alliance, is progressing in a relaxed way in the district on Wednesday amid the non-stop countrywide blockade.

However, the strike is being observed protesting the detention of senior BNP leaders including the party acting secretary general Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir and Sylhet city mayor Ariful Haq Chowdhury.

No unexpected incident was reported from any part of the district or till filing this report around 9:45 am.

But hartal supporters tried to bring out brisk procession at places, witnesses said. 

Some of rickshaws, auto-rickshaws and other light vehicles are seen plying in city thoroughfares amid chilling weather.

Long distance buses have not left city’s Kadamtoli bus terminal for the destinations during the hartal hours.

Train movement remains normal like other days.

Commuters also are seen waiting for public transports to go to their offices and other destinations in the morning.

The shut down began at 6:00am and will continue till 6:00pm on the day.

Additional police have been deployed at key points of the city to avert any sabotage.

BDST: 0952 HRS, JAN 21, 2015