Bangladesh Jatri Kalyan Samity saysTk40,000cr used to be extorted annually from auto-rickshaws

The Bangladesh Jatri Kalyan Samity, a pro-commuter platform, has alleged that during the tenure of the previous Awami League government, an estimated Tk40,000 crore used to be illicitly extorted annually from 40 lakh battery-operated auto-rickshaws across the country.

This extortion exacerbated rampant and unregulated growth of these vehicles, creating severe traffic congestion and road safety concerns.

The organisation claimed this at a press conference on Monday at the Dhaka Reporters Unity, demanding urgent policy measures to regulate battery-operated rickshaws and small vehicles.

While delivering the statement on behalf of the Jatri Kalyan Samity, its Secretary General Mozammel Haque Chowdhury said, “Since 2016, as easybikes expanded across the country, we repeatedly called for regulatory measures in various government forums. However, corruption and the involvement of influential figures, including lawmakers and ministers, in the illegal operation of these vehicles thwarted any control measures.”

He noted that the ease of import, local assembly and deployment of these vehicles, coupled with a lack of alternative employment opportunities, led millions of workers to invest in auto-rickshaws despite the inherent risks. This unchecked proliferation has contributed to labour shortages in the agriculture sector, leading to increased production costs and higher commodity prices.

Mozammel also highlighted the safety risks posed by untrained drivers, who now operate a significant portion of these vehicles, leading to an alarming increase in road accidents.

According to the organisation, registering the 40 lakh battery-operated rickshaws through city corporations, municipalities and upazila councils and issuing licenses to drivers for a nominal fee could generate Tk5,000 crore annually in revenue.

The organisation also called for strict measures, including banning easybikes, battery-operated rickshaws and CNG auto-rickshaws on national highways and major city roads, especially in Dhaka.

The organisation referred to a recent High Court order issued on 19 November, directing authorities to impose restrictions on battery-operated rickshaws in Dhaka within three days.
Following the directive, authorities attempted to evict battery-operated rickshaws from the capital, triggering widespread protests by drivers and owners. Demonstrators blocked major roads and railway lines across the city, leading to clashes with police and army personnel.

“Amidst this critical time for the country, the judiciary’s intervention in executive matters has created unrest. We urge the High Court to reconsider its order,” Mozammel said.
Eight proposals for resolution

The Bangladesh Jatri Kalyan Samity also presented an eight-point proposal to address the challenges posed by battery-operated rickshaws and small vehicles. While details of the recommendations were not shared during the press conference, Mozammel emphasised the need for a comprehensive policy to regulate their use and ensure public safety.

“Reckless growth of motorcycles for commercial use, battery-operated rickshaws and CNG auto-rickshaws is the primary cause of rising road accidents across the country,” he said.

He called for collaborative efforts between government agencies, stakeholders and the judiciary to formulate sustainable solutions.