DNC Cadminurgespublictoavoidbattery-runauto-rickshawsstreetvendors

Published in Automotive and Transportation on Sunday, August 10th 2025 at 3:36 GMT by The Daily Star
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Buet working on designing a model auto-rickshaw, he revealed

DNCC Administrator Urges Public to Steer Clear of Battery-Run Auto-Rickshaws and Street Vendors Amid Safety and Urban Order Concerns

In a significant move to enhance public safety and maintain urban order in Dhaka, the administrator of the Dhaka North City Corporation (DNCC) has issued a strong advisory urging residents to avoid using battery-run auto-rickshaws and purchasing from street vendors. This call comes as part of a broader effort to address the escalating issues of traffic congestion, road accidents, and unregulated street commerce that have long plagued the bustling capital city of Bangladesh.

The advisory, announced during a press briefing at the DNCC headquarters, highlights the inherent dangers associated with battery-operated auto-rickshaws, commonly known as "easy bikes" or "battery rickshaws" in local parlance. These vehicles, which have proliferated across Dhaka's streets in recent years, are often criticized for their lack of proper registration, substandard safety features, and contribution to chaotic traffic conditions. The DNCC administrator emphasized that many of these auto-rickshaws operate without valid licenses, leading to frequent accidents that endanger passengers, pedestrians, and other road users alike. "We are witnessing a surge in road mishaps involving these unauthorized vehicles," the administrator stated, pointing to recent statistics from traffic authorities that underscore the severity of the problem. He urged citizens to opt for safer, regulated alternatives such as CNG-run auto-rickshaws, buses, or ride-sharing services to minimize risks.

Beyond the safety concerns, the advisory also targets the pervasive issue of street vending, which has turned many of Dhaka's sidewalks and roadways into impromptu marketplaces. Street vendors, selling everything from fresh produce and snacks to clothing and electronics, often encroach on public spaces, obstructing pedestrian pathways and exacerbating traffic snarls. The DNCC official described this as a "menace to urban mobility," noting that such unregulated activities not only disrupt daily commutes but also pose health risks due to unhygienic conditions and potential food contamination. "By patronizing street vendors, the public inadvertently supports a system that undermines city planning and public hygiene," he added, calling for a collective shift towards shopping at designated markets and licensed outlets.

This initiative is not isolated but aligns with ongoing campaigns by the DNCC to reclaim public spaces and enforce municipal regulations. In recent months, the corporation has conducted multiple drives to evict illegal vendors and impound unauthorized vehicles, though these efforts have met with mixed success due to the sheer scale of the problem and occasional resistance from affected communities. The administrator acknowledged the socioeconomic factors at play, recognizing that many auto-rickshaw drivers and vendors rely on these livelihoods for survival in a city where formal employment opportunities are limited. "We are not against the people; we are against the disorder," he clarified, hinting at potential rehabilitation programs for those displaced by stricter enforcement.

The call to action extends to all segments of society, including students, office-goers, and families, who are encouraged to make conscious choices that prioritize safety and civic responsibility. For instance, parents are advised to discourage children from buying street food, which could be laced with harmful additives, while commuters are reminded of the environmental toll of battery-run vehicles, whose lead-acid batteries contribute to pollution when improperly disposed of.

Public reactions to the advisory have been varied. Some residents welcome the move, viewing it as a step towards a cleaner, safer Dhaka. "I've seen too many accidents caused by these reckless easy bikes," shared a local businessman from the Gulshan area, expressing support for the DNCC's stance. However, others, particularly from lower-income groups, express concerns about affordability and accessibility. "How will we get around without these cheap options?" questioned a daily wage laborer in Mohakhali, highlighting the economic divide that such policies might exacerbate.

To bolster the advisory, the DNCC plans to launch awareness campaigns through social media, community meetings, and school programs, aiming to educate the public on the long-term benefits of compliance. Collaborations with law enforcement agencies are also in the pipeline to intensify crackdowns on violators. The administrator stressed that while voluntary avoidance is the first step, stricter measures, including fines and vehicle seizures, will be implemented if the situation does not improve.

This development reflects broader challenges in urban governance in Bangladesh, where rapid population growth and migration to cities like Dhaka have strained infrastructure and regulatory frameworks. Battery-run auto-rickshaws emerged as a popular mode of transport in the early 2000s, filling gaps left by inadequate public transportation, but their unregulated expansion has led to what experts call an "urban mobility crisis." Similarly, street vending, a remnant of traditional bazaar culture, has ballooned into a informal economy supporting millions, yet it clashes with modern city planning goals.

Experts from urban planning organizations have weighed in, suggesting that sustainable solutions lie in integrating these informal sectors into formal systems. For auto-rickshaws, proposals include licensing schemes, dedicated lanes, and incentives for electric upgrades that meet safety standards. For vendors, designated hawker zones could provide a compromise, allowing them to operate without disrupting traffic.

The DNCC's advisory also ties into national efforts to improve road safety, as Bangladesh grapples with one of the highest rates of traffic fatalities in the region. Government reports indicate that a significant portion of accidents involve unregistered vehicles, underscoring the urgency of such interventions.

In conclusion, the DNCC's plea to avoid battery-run auto-rickshaws and street vendors is a call for collective responsibility in building a more orderly and safe urban environment. While it addresses immediate hazards, its success will depend on balancing enforcement with empathy for those whose lives are intertwined with these informal economies. As Dhaka continues to evolve, such measures could pave the way for a more sustainable and livable city, provided they are implemented with inclusivity and foresight. Residents are encouraged to stay informed through DNCC updates and participate in shaping a better future for the capital.

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[ https://www.thedailystar.net/news/bangladesh/news/dncc-admin-urges-public-avoid-battery-run-auto-rickshaws-street-vendors-3879506 ]

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DNC Cadminurgespublictoavoidbattery-runauto-rickshawsstreetvendors

DNCC Administrator Urges Public to Steer Clear of Battery-Run Auto-Rickshaws and Street Vendors Amid Safety and Urban Order Concerns