Dhaka South City Corporation (DSCC) Administrator Bir Muktijoddha Md. Abdus Salam announced that the government is preparing a policy to regulate illegal battery-powered rickshaws in the capital. He made the statement on Tuesday during a meeting at the DSCC building focused on easing traffic congestion and reducing public suffering caused by unlicensed rickshaws. Leaders of the Bangladesh Rickshaw-Van and Battery Rickshaw-Van Owners Federation attended the meeting, which was chaired by Salam.

According to the discussion, the number of unlicensed battery-powered rickshaws has grown sharply, worsening traffic and endangering public safety. Federation leaders said pedal rickshaws are disappearing as drivers switch to battery models, and some owners have added batteries to licensed pedal rickshaws. They urged the government to legalize these modified vehicles under the new policy and to take action against seasonal operators from outside Dhaka.

Salam stated that the policy will balance public convenience and livelihoods, setting standards for design, speed, and safety to prevent road disorder. He also called on legitimate Dhaka-based rickshaw owners and drivers to oppose illegal operators from outside the city.