Summary:
- Over 5,000 unlicensed battery-powered rickshaws have overwhelmed Sreemangal’s streets, causing severe traffic congestion and threatening the tourist destination’s appeal.
- Reckless driving by untrained operators has led to frequent accidents involving tourists, while the limited traffic police struggle to maintain order.
- Licensed transport workers paying up to Tk40,000 in annual taxes protest against these illegal vehicles operating freely without consequences.
- Local authorities acknowledge the problem but face resistance from influential representatives, hampering effective enforcement measures.
The tourist hub of Sreemangal in Moulvibazar district faces severe traffic disruption as over 5,000 battery-powered auto-rickshaws have flooded its streets, causing significant concerns for both local authorities and visitors alike.
The uncontrolled proliferation of these vehicles has led to a collapse of the local traffic system, with congestion particularly severe on major thoroughfares including Sreemangal Road, Central Road, and Kusumbag. The situation worsens from mid-morning until late night, creating gridlock conditions that affect both tourists and residents.
“Illegal auto-rickshaws are being seized. However, due to the tourist season, vehicle pressure remains high,” stated MKH Jahangir Hossain, Superintendent of Police for Moulvibazar.
The problem extends beyond mere traffic congestion. Reckless driving by untrained operators has resulted in numerous accidents involving both domestic and international tourists. The municipal licensing department confirms that none of these battery-powered auto-rickshaws possess official licenses to operate.
Md Islam Uddin, Sreemangal’s Upazila Nirbahi Officer, acknowledged the severity of the situation, stating: “The matter has been brought to the Deputy Commissioner’s attention, and several meetings have been held to bring these battery-powered rickshaws under control.” However, he noted that administrative efforts face resistance due to influence from local representatives.
The issue has sparked protests from legitimate transport workers. Nuru Mia, President of the Truck, Lorry, and Covered Van Association, expressed frustration that while licensed operators face strict scrutiny and pay annual taxes of Tk30,000-40,000, illegal battery-operated rickshaws continue to operate without consequences.
The situation has particularly impacted Sreemangal’s tourism sector, which had recently shown signs of recovery following the pandemic. The unauthorized vehicles not only create traffic chaos but also exploit tourists through excessive fares, taking advantage of the limited traffic police presence.
Municipal authorities, including Md Zahirul Islam, Sreemangal Municipal Executive Engineer, have promised action against illegal vehicles. However, the effectiveness of these measures remains to be seen as the number of battery-powered rickshaws continues to grow, threatening both tourism and local transportation infrastructure.
Source: Dhaka Tribune
