Ctg Mayor Calls for Boycott of Battery Rickshaws

Published : Monday, 21 April, 2025 at 2:57 PM Count : 110

The dominance of battery-powered rickshaws is increasing day by day in Chattogram city. Experts, pedestrians, and city authorities believe that these unauthorized and uncontrolled vehicles are creating a serious risk for the public. Recent incidents of deaths and injuries in one accident after another have increased the concern among city dwellers.

During a visit to the New Market area of the city, Chattogram City Corporation (CCC) Mayor Dr. Shahadat Hossain said, "Our campaign against these illegal vehicles is ongoing. But only administrative measures are not enough—citizens also need to be aware. If you don't ride these rickshaws and discourage the drivers, they will stop taking to the streets."

Among the series of accidents caused by battery-powered rickshaws in Chattogram, the death of a child who fell from his mother's lap in Chawkbazar, the death of a school student in Agrabad, and the injury of an elderly woman in Panchlaish are the most discussed. Doctors say that patients injured in these rickshaw accidents are arriving at the hospital almost daily.

Dr. Nafisa Sharmin, a doctor in the emergency department of Chattogram Medical College Hospital, told The Financial Post, "The consequences of battery-rickshaw accidents are mostly severe. This is because the rickshaws have high speed, low balance, and the drivers are untrained. These rickshaws are most dangerous for children and the elderly."

Regarding this, Rubina Akhter, a pedestrian, told The Financial Post, "We cannot walk properly on the sidewalks. Suddenly, rickshaws come up. It is scary to go out with children."

Urban planner Professor Md. Asaduzzaman told The Financial Post, "Even if battery-powered rickshaws are not completely banned, they must be brought under a clear policy. This includes speed control, mandatory licensing, and ensuring trained drivers."

CMP Traffic Sergeant Mostafiz told The Financial Post that the operation against battery-powered rickshaws will be intensified to restore order in the city and ensure road safety. At the same time, campaigns and publicity will also be conducted to raise public awareness.

City dwellers expect that the combined implementation of administrative measures, public awareness, and transportation policies will be expedited to curb the dominance of illegal vehicles.

FP/MI