Auto rickshaws to face gradual regulatory measures
Collected Photo
Road Transport, Railways and Shipping Minister Shaikh Rabiul Alam has said auto rickshaws are not allowed to operate on national highways. However, as many people are now involved with auto rickshaws, steps will be taken gradually to resolve the existing problems while also considering their livelihoods.
He made the remarks on Tuesday while releasing fish fry and planting trees in Dhanmondi in the capital. The program was organized by Dhanmondi Youth Club.
Rabiul Alam said, “We are not in favor of auto rickshaws operating on national highways. We want to control them and we are doing so. But there is a problem of widespread operation. Therefore, there is a strong need for a specific policy determining where auto rickshaws can operate and where they cannot.”
The minister said a policy should be formulated in coordination with highway police and those involved in highway management. However, no policy allows auto rickshaws to operate on national highways. He also said effective measures are being taken in this regard.
Explaining why the measures would be taken gradually, the road transport minister said many people are now involved with auto rickshaws and they are also a part of society. At the same time, “We want a system through which the existing problems will be resolved.”
The minister said those who may be affected while resolving the problems will also be provided assistance. He said importance would also be given to bringing their livelihoods into a regulated system and ensuring that the sector operates in an orderly manner.
Shaikh Rabiul Alam said if auto rickshaws operate in any area, there should be accountability. Those who drive auto rickshaws should have at least a minimum level of qualification. He said these issues would be incorporated into the policy and strong measures would be taken.
Highlighting the responsibilities related to highway management, the minister said, “I build the highways. The Ministry of Communications does not authorize vehicles to operate on highways.” The Ministry of Communications is responsible for constructing roads and highways as well as preserving and maintaining them. He said these tasks can be carried out immediately based on need and are being carried out.
However, Shaikh Rabiul Alam said many authorities are involved in highway management. He said, “I am working to coordinate those authorities. But I have to take the blame for all the shortcomings in the management of the entire highway system. However, my involvement here is limited and my scope for taking action is specific.”
He further said solutions to all highway management problems or disorder do not rest solely with him. Other ministries and government departments also have roles to play in resolving them.
At the event, he released fish fry into Dhanmondi Lake and planted a tree nearby.
Shaikh Khalid Hasan Jacky, president of Dhanmondi Youth Club and former convener of Dhaka Metropolitan East Chhatra Dal, chaired the event. Leaders from different levels of the club and local activists were present.
