United News of Bangladesh

Though the rapid increase in rickshaws across Dhaka has added to the city’s traffic chaos, authorities remain reluctant about the worsening issue, city dwellers complained. “Despite the visible impact on traffic congestion, the absence of accurate data regarding the number of rickshaws further complicates the situation,” said Saiful Azam, a city dweller, while talking to the UNB correspondent. A UNB investigation revealed a lack of precise information from the authorities responsible for regulating rickshaws, creating an alarming discrepancy between the data and the ground realities. Currently, some 10% of Dhaka’s residents commute using private vehicles, 25% rely on public buses, 5% use autorickshaws and taxis, while an overwhelming 60% depend on rickshaws. Battery-Run Rickshaws: A Growing Concern The proliferation of battery-run rickshaws has exacerbated the city’s traffic problems. These vehicles, operating without licences or formal approval, have become a source of frustration for pedal rickshaw drivers, who argue that their livelihoods are being adversely affected. This surge is occurring despite a 2014 High Court ban on battery-run rickshaws in Dhaka and Chattogram. Another directive issued on 15 December 2021 prohibited the import of such rickshaws. However, enforcement remains lax, leading to their unchecked growth on Dhaka’s streets. Licensing and Data Discrepancies The Dhaka City Corporation, now divided into Dhaka North City Corporation (DNCC) and Dhaka South City Corporation (DSCC), ceased issuing licences for pedal rickshaws over three decades ago, citing their contribution to gridlock. Official records state that Dhaka has 220,379 licensed rickshaws, with DNCC accounting for 30,162 and DSCC for 190,217. Read: Govt intensifies efforts to improve Dhaka's traffic management But a 2019 study by the Bangladesh Institute of Labour Studies (BILS) estimated the number of pedal rickshaws in Dhaka to exceed 1.1 million, of which only 3-4% were registered. Behind-the-Scenes Power Play Interviews with rickshaw drivers revealed that controlling the number of rickshaws is challenging due to the involvement of politicians, administrators, and law enforcement. These groups allegedly protect and facilitate the illegal operation of rickshaws, given the sector’s profitability and its minimal contributions to government revenue. Jabbar, a pedal rickshaw driver with a decade of experience, shared stories of exploitation: “The money we earn is mostly taken by the owners. We pay daily deposits, road costs, and for any damages. If a rickshaw is lost, we must compensate for it in instalments. Owning a rickshaw is costly and depends on the area. In places like Gulshan and Banani, higher investments are needed. We are working hard every day but earn very little.” Another driver, Sumon Ali, highlighted the difficulties posed by the rising cost of living and competition from battery-run rickshaws: “Everything is expensive now, but the battery-run rickshaws make it harder for us as they take away our passengers. People often prefer them over us.” Investment in Rickshaw Ownership For investors, rickshaw ownership presents a lucrative opportunity. A new or refurbished rickshaw costs around Tk 20,000, with a daily deposit collection of Tk 200. Read more:Delay in Dhaka-Narayanganj Link Road expansion causes severe traffic disruptions An investment of Tk 100,000 for five rickshaws can break even within six months. Over three years and two months, this could theoretically yield a fleet of 320 rickshaws, considering a 10% damage rate every 5.5 months. This would result in a monthly income of Tk 6.12 lakh after deducting parking and maintenance costs. Organisational Exploitation Several organisations, including the Dhaka Division Rickshaw and Van Owners’ Association and the Bangladesh Rickshaw Owners League, have been accused of illegally issuing number plates for rickshaws. The DSCC confirmed that rickshaw licences have not been issued since 1986, yet these organisations continue to provide licences, citing stay orders from the court. Importance of Rickshaws Despite their drawbacks, rickshaws remain vital to Dhaka’s transport and economy. They are widely used for commuting, school trips, and recreational purposes, especially during the monsoon. Estimates suggest that between 1 and 4 million rickshaws operate across Bangladesh, carrying 25 million passengers daily. But the rise of auto-rickshaws has introduced additional challenges, including increased traffic congestion, road accidents, and safety risks due to excessive speeds. Many auto-rickshaw drivers lack experience, further endangering road users. Read more: Demonstration of dismissed armed forces’ members halts traffic for 3 hrs While rickshaws are environmentally friendly and produce no harmful emissions, their slow pace and growing numbers contribute significantly to Dhaka’s traffic woes. A Cultural Symbol Bangladesh holds the record for hosting the highest number of rickshaws globally, with Dhaka alone operating a significant portion daily. In 2023, UNESCO recognised rickshaws and rickshaw art as an intangible cultural heritage of Bangladesh. The growing presence of rickshaws, especially battery-run ones, calls for immediate intervention from authorities. Without effective regulation and enforcement, the situation is likely to worsen, further paralysing Dhaka’s already strained transport system.

Mentioning that the three-wheeler vehicle is essential for the sake of the people, Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) Commissioner Sheikh Md Sajjat Ali on Tuesday said that the auto-rickshaws is responsible for reducing the walk-able spaces in Dhaka city. “Two phases of meetings have been held with the representatives of the auto-rickshaw drivers but we must ensure that the numbers of three wheelers should not be increased,” he said. The DMP commissioner came up with the information while speaking at a view-exchange meeting with students, local people and citizens of Mohammadpur area, held at a community center in Mohammadpur's Ring Road area. 'Our main job is to serve the people': DMP Commissioner The main priority of police is to ensure public safety and he assured that all security-related tasks would be implemented with utmost priority. "Support the police, and we are committed to providing you with the highest level of service," he said. "Our initiatives to improve the police’s image are ongoing. The residents of Mohammadpur were well aware that after August 5 how they feel insecure as stolen and robbery incidents can disrupt their lives if the police remain inactive. Cooperate with the police to maintain law and order and prevent crime,” he added. DMP files 2,683 cases for breaching traffic rules Referring to extortionists in Mohammadpur, he said, "Most extortionists in Mohammadpur are residents of this area. Identify and resist the wrongdoers among your neighbors. The extortion gang on footpaths is being monitored and legal actions are being taken promptly." He also urged the political leaders to refrain from holding rallies and procession in designated areas instead of open streets as it would reduce public inconvenience. He also urged them to shun the tactic of blocking roads. Issuing a stern warning against drug-related activities, the commissioner said, "All-out measures are being taken to combat drugs. Drug dealers will not be spared under any circumstances.”  

The Rickshaw, Battery-Powered Rickshaw-Van, and Easy Bike Sangram Parishad staged a demonstration in front of the Jatiya Press Club on Saturday, presenting a seven-point demand aimed at resolving their challenges and securing their livelihoods. Leaders and activists of the Parishad gathered during the demonstrations, urging the government to take immediate steps to meet their demands. Battery-run rickshaws, illegal CNG auto-rickshaws to be banned from tomorrow in Sylhet city Their demands include: Registration and Licensing: The Parishad called for the registration of electric bikes, rickshaws, and other battery-operated vehicles under existing regulatory frameworks, along with licences and route permits for drivers. Modernisation of Vehicles: They emphasised the need to address technical faults in battery-powered vehicles and ensure their modernisation to improve efficiency and safety. Compensation for Victims: The Parishad demanded adequate compensation for all workers who have been injured or killed during mass uprisings involving students, workers, and the general public. Establishment of Charging Stations: To prevent electricity theft and wastage, they urged the government to set up dedicated charging stations across the country. DMP takes action against 19,962 battery-run rickshaws in Dhaka during weeklong drive Worker Benefits: They advocated for rationing at army rates, pension schemes, and free healthcare facilities for all workers. The demonstrators argued that battery-powered vehicles play a vital role in ensuring affordable and sustainable transportation for millions. The Parishad leaders warned of further protests if their demands are not met immediately.  

A 65-year-old rickshaw puller was killed as a speeding pickup van hit his vehicle in the capital's Kakrail Monday night, police said. Tajul Islam was from Baliakandi upazila of Rajbari and used to live in the Rampura TV Station area in Dhaka. Md Romen Miah, a sub-inspector (SI) of Ramna Police Station, said the accident occurred around 8.45pm when the pickup van crashed into the rickshaw in front of Judges Complex in Kakrail, leaving Tajul critically injured. The 65-year-old was declared dead after being rushed to Dhaka Medical College Hospital (DMCH) at 9:15pm. The body has been kept at the DMCH morgue for autopsy, the SI said. Read more: 2 killed, 4 hurt in Natore road crashes              

A 7-year-old child died after falling from her grandmother's lap while they were on a battery-run rickshaw in the capital's Konabari on Tuesday afternoon.The deceased is Tahmina Akter Tanisha, daughter of Abul Kalam of Matlab upazila of Chandpur.The victim's paternal uncle Mehedi Hasan Sajal said the child lived with her family in Jatrabari.He said Tanisha along with two other children were going to Dogair Bazar from Matuail by a battery-run auto-rickshaw.  On the way, Tanisha fell on the road from the lap of her grandmother, leaving her seriously injured.She was rushed to the Dhaka Medical College Hospital where Tanisha succumbed to her injuries under treatment.Confirming the matter, Dhaka Medical College Hospital police outpost in-charge Bacchu Mia said the body was kept at the hospital morgue and Jatrabari police station has been informed about the matter.

If you have crossed Gulshan 1 circle or got caught in its signal this week, you have surely noticed the colorful rickshaw hoods installed on the north-east triangular island. As a means to promote the ARCASIA Forum 20 taking place in Dhaka this month, Architecture Department of different Universities were asked for installations at different nodes of Dhaka. “Experience Dhaka by Rickshaw” is BRAC University’s Architecture Department’s take on the City Branding Installation.