Battery-Powered Rickshaws Spark Crisis Amid Crackdown and Public Debate in Bangladesh

Opinion

A new crisis has emerged in Bangladesh over battery-powered rickshaws as the government moves toward banning them, sparking protests from drivers, debates among citizens, and growing tensions across cities.

While the government argues that these rickshaws are unsafe and contribute to urban chaos, different segments of society are divided on the issue. Some advocate for a complete ban, others call for technical improvements, and many demand that alternative income options be arranged for drivers before any prohibition is enforced.

As part of the government directive, battery-powered rickshaws are being seized in various urban centers, prompting widespread protests. Rickshaw drivers have taken to the streets, resulting in escalating confrontations between law enforcement and demonstrators.

A similar crackdown in 2010–2011 led to a series of articles and public discussions highlighting the pros and cons of these vehicles. However, critics argue that policymakers have not addressed the core issues even a decade later.

The primary concern lies in the unscientific remodeling of traditional pedal rickshaws to accommodate battery-powered engines. Unlike the purpose-built auto-rickshaws seen in cities like Rajshahi, Dhaka’s battery-powered rickshaws are often retrofitted haphazardly, leading to significant safety risks.

“The design flaws are glaring,” experts say. Traditional rickshaws have a forward-leaning center of gravity, which becomes hazardous when a battery increases speed. With only manual front brakes and an unbalanced chassis, these rickshaws are prone to tipping over during sharp turns or sudden stops. Accidents are exacerbated by their lightweight frames and tall, wind-catching hoods.

In contrast, cities like Rajshahi use sturdier designs with lower centers of gravity, heavier wheels, and streamlined structures. These features make them significantly safer, with negligible accident rates.

Critics have pointed fingers at policymakers and institutions such as the Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET) for failing to implement proper guidelines. “Why has Dhaka lagged behind in developing safe, technically sound battery rickshaws when other cities have succeeded?” asked one urban planner.

Beyond safety, concerns have also been raised over the arbitrary enforcement of regulations. Protesters argue that government priorities are misplaced, citing examples like poorly planned road infrastructure and the unchecked increase in private vehicles.

With hundreds of thousands of people relying on battery-powered rickshaws for their livelihoods, an outright ban could have devastating socio-economic impacts. Critics have likened the crackdown to previous evictions of slum dwellers and street vendors without offering viable alternatives.

Some argue that battery-powered rickshaws are not inherently a poor person’s mode of transport. “Ninety-five percent of passengers are middle-class. These rickshaws are not affordable for the poor except in emergencies,” said one expert.

Rather than outright bans, urban planning advocates have suggested cost-effective and pragmatic solutions:

1. Redesigning Rickshaws: Allocate funding (approximately BDT 2,000 per rickshaw) to remodel existing battery-powered rickshaws using safer designs like those in Rajshahi.
2. Driver Financing: Offer loans through government banks to help drivers upgrade their vehicles and repay costs over time.
3. Mechanical Conversion: Gradually transition all pedal rickshaws to mechanical or battery-powered alternatives to eliminate inhumane human-pulled vehicles.
4. Private Car Restrictions: Limit households to one private car and restrict compressed natural gas (CNG) usage in private vehicles to reduce road congestion.
5. Fair Regulation: Focus enforcement on unsafe modifications rather than mass seizures, ensuring drivers are not unfairly penalized.

The debate continues to divide opinions. While the government emphasizes road safety and congestion control, advocates for drivers stress the need for humane policies that balance urban management with socio-economic realities.

“Banning rickshaws without alternatives will only create chaos,” said a protester. “We need thoughtful solutions, not hasty decisions.”

The government now faces growing pressure to reconcile safety concerns with the livelihoods of millions who depend on these rickshaws, making it a pivotal issue in urban governance.

Monjurul Haque

Journalist & Columnist