Decision on battery-run rickshaws on city roads soon

The government is expected to take a policy decision soon on the operation of battery-powered rickshaws in Dhaka, although there is currently no plan to impose a blanket ban on the vehicles, according to Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) Additional Commissioner (Traffic) Md Anisur Rahman.

Speaking on the issue, Anisur Rahman said discussions on regulating battery-run rickshaws are underway, but no final decision has yet been taken regarding their overall operation in the capital. However, restrictions on their movement on major roads are already in place as part of ongoing efforts to improve traffic management and road discipline in the city.

“Battery-run rickshaws are not allowed to operate on the capital’s main roads under existing directives. The government has not yet taken a final policy decision regarding their overall operation, but such a decision is expected very soon,” he said. The remarks come amid growing debate over the role of battery-run rickshaws in transport system.