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"It can't be done in a day; it's an ongoing process," says Gulshan Society
Published : 20 Apr 2025, 12:06 AM
An attempt to stop battery-powered rickshaws in Dhaka’s upscale Gulshan has faced a "setback" on the first day of the campaign.
Although the drive began with control in the morning, rickshaw drivers began protesting by noon, eventually restoring the presence of battery-run rickshaws across Gulshan and Banani on Saturday.
The effort to restrict these vehicles had been underway for several days, led by the Gulshan Society in coordination with the Dhaka North City Corporation (DNCC).
Omar Sadat, president of the Gulshan Society, told bdnews24.com that the campaign began Saturday with banners and loudspeaker announcements.
Letters seeking police support were also sent out, he added.
Assistant Police Commissioner (Traffic) for Gulshan Zone Abu Sayem Nayan security personnel employed by the Society were working at several points alongside police to prevent battery rickshaws from operating.
Teams were stationed since morning at key points including Banani 11, Badda-Gulshan Link Road, Gulshan 2, Kalachandpur, and the area around Police Plaza, effectively sealing off access into Gulshan.
Tensions mounted as the day progressed. Around noon, agitated rickshaw drivers took out a procession from Banani 11, demanding equal treatment for battery-run and pedal-powered rickshaws.
Some drivers reportedly split off and vandalised several pedal-powered rickshaws.
Clashes were also reported near Police Plaza and surrounding areas.
Sadat said battery-run rickshaws have been operating beyond government control since the fall of the Awami League administration on Aug 5, 2024.
“We’ve been receiving regular complaints of diplomats being harassed by these rickshaws,” he added.
“There are also court directives on the matter. Considering all this, we launched the campaign with support from the city corporation and the police.”
Sadat also said they had spoken with rickshaw drivers and owners about the issue.
Asked about the post-noon situation, he said: “You can’t change everything in a single day. It’s an ongoing process. We’re committed to making the area clean and safe.”
Sadat noted that after the Holey Artisan attack, new regulations were introduced regarding rickshaw movement in the area.
“There are about 450 registered rickshaws here, and police have information on their drivers,” he said.
