The Dhaka North City Corporation (DNCC) has launched a major crackdown on battery-powered rickshaws, declaring that such vehicles will no longer be allowed on the capital’s main roads. On Tuesday (May 13), over 100 unauthorized rickshaws were seized and dismantled during a drive in the Asad Gate area, as part of the city’s effort to restore order and safety on key routes.
The DNCC has announced plans to replace these illegal rickshaws with vehicles of an approved design. Driver training programs are set to begin this month, and official licenses will be issued to those operating the approved models. These rickshaws will be permitted to operate in designated zones at fixed fares.
In addition to removing unapproved rickshaws, the DNCC will shut down unauthorized charging stations and production workshops that manufacture or support battery-powered rickshaws.
Tuesday’s enforcement drive extended from Dhanmondi’s Old Road No. 27 to Asad Gate. Officials reported that despite prior warnings, many rickshaws continued to operate in violation of the ban.
Authorities noted a sharp rise in the presence of battery-powered rickshaws on main roads since August of last year. These vehicles have been linked to frequent accidents, often caused by reckless driving, speeding, and traveling against traffic.
DNCC Administrator Mohammad Ejaz confirmed that the ban will be strictly enforced going forward. “We’re committed to ensuring safe, regulated transport,” he said. “Only licensed, approved rickshaws will be allowed to operate, and we are taking steps to eliminate illegal charging points and workshops.”
Previously, DNCC had attempted to enforce a similar ban in areas like Gulshan, but the lack of effective monitoring hindered implementation. This time, officials say, enforcement will be consistent and city-wide.
