Dhaka: Road Transport and Bridges Adviser Muhammad Fouzul Kabir Khan today emphasized that traffic accidents are primarily due to chaos and rule violations rather than a shortage of roads. He made these remarks during the inauguration of a pilot project for three-wheeled, battery-powered e-rickshaws in Aftabnagar under Dhaka South City Corporation (DSCC). The project was developed by the Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET).
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the inaugural ceremony was led by Md. Rezaul Maksud Zahedi, Secretary of the Local Government Department, and was also launched at two locations in Jigatola under DSCC. LGRD and Cooperatives Adviser Adilur Rahman Khan highlighted the need for scientific testing of e-rickshaw designs, structures, braking systems, and battery safety. This pilot program aims to verify those standards in real-road conditions, with the ultimate goal of establishing a disciplined urban transport system.
Chief Adviser's Special Assistant Sheikh Moinuddin remarked on the role of e-rickshaws as part of a planned urban transport system. He noted that a sustainable transport system in Dhaka requires advancements in technology, design, and management. Special Assistant for defense and national reconciliation affairs, Lieutenant General (retd) Abdul Hafiz, stressed the importance of safety features in e-rickshaws to reduce accidents.
Faiz Ahmed Taiyeb, Special Assistant on Posts, Telecommunications, and Information Technology, stated that technology-based transport is essential for a modern city. He mentioned that the e-rickshaw would serve as a model for smart urban transport with geo-fencing and digital control systems.
Dhaka North City Corporation Administrator Mohammad Ejaz emphasized the importance of training and licensing for rickshaw drivers to ensure passenger safety and road discipline. DSCC Administrator Md Mahmudul Hasan added that, based on the pilot program's outcomes, e-rickshaws would be expanded citywide, with existing pedal rickshaws gradually upgraded to safer, modern versions.
According to DNCC sources, BUET designed a standard e-rickshaw to regulate the uncontrolled operation of battery-powered rickshaws in Dhaka. The design received approval from the ministry's technical committee before the pilot program commenced. The e-rickshaws come equipped with advanced braking and speed control systems and feature environmentally friendly 38-volt lithium batteries capable of traveling 70-80 kilometers on a single charge. Training and licensing are mandatory for e-rickshaw drivers, with around 24,000 operators already trained and licensed by Dhaka North and South City Corporations.