The Bangladesh Road Transport Authority (BRTA) has withdrawn its recent directive imposing fines on drivers of gas- or petrol-powered four-stroke three-wheeler vehicles (auto-rickshaws) for not using meters.
On Sunday, February 16, starting from 8:30 AM, auto-rickshaw drivers blocked roads in various areas of Dhaka, including Shanir Akhra, Dholai Par, Golapbagh, Demra, Rampura, College Gate, Agargaon, Mirpur, and Mazar Road. The directive was issued amid these protests.
A press release from the Deputy Commissioner (DC) of the Media and Public Relations Department of the Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP), Muhammad Talebur Rahman, confirmed that all relevant parties have been notified of the decision. The DMP has urged the protesters to lift the blockades and ensure no further disruption to traffic.
Dhaka Metropolitan Police’s Additional Commissioner of Traffic, Md. Sarwar, stated, "We addressed the issue with BRTA after auto-rickshaw drivers blocked roads in Dhaka. Today, BRTA has withdrawn the letter regarding fines and imprisonment."
Earlier, on February 10, BRTA had issued a directive stating that drivers who charge fares higher than the meter's reading would face fines or imprisonment.
According to the directive, Section 35(3) of the Road Transport Act 2018 mandates that route-permitted auto-rickshaws must carry passengers to any destination and cannot charge fares exceeding the meter's reading. Violators of this rule could face a maximum fine of BDT 50,000, imprisonment for up to six months, or both, under Section 81 of the law. Additionally, one point would be deducted from the driver’s license.
