Auto-rickshaws to operate in 8 zones of Dhaka with separate colours

The government has taken a new initiative to bring the unregulated movement of battery-run auto rickshaws on Dhaka's roads under control. Under the proposed new policy, the entire Dhaka city will be divided into eight designated zones for operating these vehicles. Separate colours for rickshaws in each zone and digital registration with QR codes on every vehicle are being introduced.

Under the new system, a rickshaw permitted in one zone will not be allowed to enter another. This will help regulate rickshaw movement beyond designated areas and make it easier to identify illegal vehicles. At the same time, plans are underway to set up solar-powered charging stations for batteries to reduce pressure on the national grid's electricity.

For a long time, there have been complaints about the reckless movement of battery-run rickshaws across Dhaka's roads, from main thoroughfares to alleyways. Many drivers lack adequate knowledge of traffic laws and valid licences, making these vehicles a major cause of accidents and traffic congestion.

Additionally, there are allegations of batteries being charged using national grid electricity at various unauthorised garages.

In this context, the Ministry of Local Government and the two city corporations have taken the initiative for zonal management.

Local Government, Rural Development and Cooperatives State Minister Mir Shahe Alam said battery-run rickshaws will be brought under regulation rather than being completely banned. If divided into eight zones, no area will have more rickshaws than its designated capacity. At the same time, charging rickshaws using electricity from residential or commercial connections will be strictly prohibited. Instead, charging facilities will be provided through solar charging stations.

He said, "We do not want to destroy the livelihoods of drivers. However, there will be no compromise on road safety and discipline. With separate colours and QR registration for each zone, illegal and unauthorised rickshaws can be easily identified."

Dhaka South City Corporation (DSCC) Administrator Bir Muktijoddha Abdus Salam said work on area-based surveys and zone demarcation has begun in the south city. The two city corporations are jointly finalising the process of dividing the entire Dhaka city into eight zones.

He said each zone's rickshaws will have a specific colour. If a rickshaw from one area enters another zone, action will be taken with the help of digital tracking and traffic police.

Abdus Salam further said the registration process will be fully digital. Each rickshaw will have a permanent QR code that can be scanned to obtain driver and owner information, which will help reduce rickshaw theft and criminal activities.