CNG drivers face fines up to Tk 50,000 for overcharging

The Bangladesh Road Transport Authority (BRTA) has instructed legal action against CNG and petrol-run auto-rickshaw drivers who charge fares exceeding the government-approved meter rates.  

The directive was issued in a letter signed by BRTA Director (Engineering) Shitangshu Shekhar Biswas on Monday (February 10). 

Later, the letter was sent to the Commissioner of Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP).  

According to the letter, cases should be filed against drivers of four-stroke, three-wheeler auto-rickshaws who demand fares higher than the regulated meter rates.  

The directive references Section 35(3) of the Road Transport Act 2018, which states that contract carriage owners or drivers must transport passengers to any destination within the permitted route area and cannot demand or collect fares beyond the meter reading.  

Violations of this provision will result in penalties under Section 81 of the law, which includes a maximum fine of Tk 50,000, imprisonment for up to six months, or both. 

Additionally, drivers found guilty will have one demerit point deducted from their driving record.  

BRTA has urged authorities to take strict action against any driver found overcharging passengers beyond the approved meter fare.