Battery-run rickshaws to operate in Dhaka: HC

Dhaka, Nov. 25 — The Supreme Court’s chamber judge on Monday ordered a one-month status quo on the High Court’s decision to ban battery-run rickshaws in Dhaka. The ruling temporarily allows the rickshaws to operate in the city.

The government filed an appeal against the High Court’s November 19 order to stop all battery-run rickshaws in Dhaka within three days. After a hearing on Monday afternoon, the chamber court stayed the High Court directive.

On November 19, a High Court bench led by Justice Fatema Najib and Justice Md. Mahmudur Raji ordered the ban, citing inactivity by the authorities regarding enforcement. The court also issued a rule asking why the inaction should not be deemed illegal.

The High Court directed the home secretary, local government secretary, inspector general of police, Dhaka police commissioner, and both Dhaka city corporation authorities to implement the order.

The directive followed a writ petition filed by the Greater Dhaka City Pedal Rickshaw Owners Alliance, represented by its president Jahurul Islam Masum and secretary Md. Momin Ali. They sought a ban on battery-run rickshaws in the capital.

Barristers Sanjid Siddiqui and Tahsina Tasnim Siddiqui represented the petitioners during the hearing.

Battery-run rickshaw drivers have been protesting the High Court order since it was issued.