The government is set to introduce separate fare chart for air-conditioned (AC) buses and minibuses, with plans to display the rates digitally inside public transport to ensure transparency for passengers.
Road Transport and Bridges Minister Sheikh Robiul Alam disclosed this in parliament on Thursday while responding to a written question from lawmaker Rumeen Farhana. The session of the Jatiya Sangsad was chaired by Speaker Hafiz Uddin Ahmed.
He said that under the Road Transport Act, 2018, committees have been formed at metropolitan, divisional and district levels to oversee passenger and goods transport. These committees determine the number of vehicles based on road capacity and approve route permits accordingly.
The minister added that public transport fares are fixed or revised through government gazette notifications, which also set minimum fare levels. After any revision, the Bangladesh Road Transport Authority publishes the fare chart on its website and instructs transport owners to display it prominently inside vehicles.
At present, fare charts are available for non-AC buses and minibuses. The minister said a separate fare structure for AC services will be finalised soon and displayed through digital screens inside vehicles, making it easier for passengers to view.
Officials say the move is expected to bring greater accountability to fare collection and improve commuter confidence in public transport services.
FP/MI