Metre-based system cancelled amid auto rickshaw drivers’ protests

The interim government has revoked its decision to enforce metre-based fare system in CNG-run auto rickshaws amid protests by the vehicle drivers.

As a result, CNG-run auto rickshaws will run without metre following previous system.

The Bangladesh Road Transport Authority (BRTA) issued a notification in this regard on Sunday (February 16) morning.

Earlier around 9:30 am, CNG-run auto rickshaw drivers blocked roads at various points across the capital in protest against the government order to enforce metre-based system.

The auto rickshaw drivers blocked Shyamoli, Shishu Mela, Mazar Road, Mirpur-10 intersection, Mirpur-14 intersection, Kalshi, Rayerbag, Rampura bridge intersection and Jatrabari, resulting in huge suffering for office commuters and other passengers.

On February 10, the BRTA sent a letter to Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) asking the police to book drivers of CNG-run four-stroke three-wheelers if they are found to charge more than the fares shown in their metres. The metres were required to be installed at every vehicle of the type.

Those violating the rules would face six months in prison or a fine of maximum Tk50,000 or both penalties, the letter had said.