Dhaka:On a morning when Dhaka's roads are typically bustling with battery-run rickshaws, several streets were noticeably clearer as the vehicles remained largely absent due to a drivers' protest.
According to United News of Bangladesh, the protest led to fewer battery-run rickshaws on roads in areas such as Malibagh, Mouchak, Badda, and Rampura, creating more space for other vehicles and pedestrians. This unusual absence provided a temporary relief from the congestion commonly associated with these three-wheelers.
While the clearer roads were welcomed by some, the lack of rickshaws caused difficulties for many commuters who depend on them for short, affordable journeys. The impact was particularly apparent around the Jatiya Press Club area after 10:30 am, where the protest began.
During the demonstration, protesters stopped drivers who were still operating and, in some instances, disabled the rickshaws by removing electrical wires. This highlighted the dual nature of battery-run rickshaws in Dhaka’s transport system: they contribute to traffic congestion but also serve as a crucial last-mile transport solution for countless residents.