The move was taken to avert frequent truck dacoities on the vulnerable road from Jaldhaka to the land port where trucks move very slowly.

Transport union leaders of Jaldhaka on Sunday submitted a petition to Jaldhaka Police Station officer- in-charge (OC) seeking permission to guard their vehicles. They also brought the matter to knowledge of Nilphamari Deputy Commissioner (DC) and Superintendent of Police (SP).

Sources in both the Exporters and Importers Association and Truck, Tank Lorry Workers' Union said at least 25 incidents of armed robbery, theft and mugging took place at night on the road in last six months.

The general secretary of Jaldhaka unit of Nilphamari District Truck, Tank Lorry Workers' Union , Aminur Rahman said the robbers beat up truck drivers and helpers and created insecurity among themselves.

Greater Rangpur Exporters and Importers Association convener Shamsuzzaman Shamu also expressed his great concern over the situation.

The most vulnerable portion of the road passes through Jaldhaka from where food, fruits, spices, engineering and electronics goods and other items are carried to different parts of the country from India, Bhutan and Nepal by heavy trucks.

Garment items, jute and jute goods are also carried from Saidpur through the road.

On contact, Jaldhaka OC Abdul Mannan told they have intensified night patrolling to prevent armed robbery.