Dhaka Metropolitan Police Commissioner Sheikh Md Sajjat Ali has announced plans to draft a policy that would restrict individuals from owning more than one battery-powered rickshaw.

He gave the update at a meeting with rickshaw owners and labour representatives at the Dhaka Metropolitan Police, or DMP, headquarters on Thursday.

He said, “Work is underway to formulate a policy on battery-powered rickshaws. In light of the proposed policy, no person will be able to own more than one battery-powered rickshaw.”

Sajjat emphasised that the policy aims to prioritise the principle that “whoever drives is the owner”.

While acknowledging that battery-powered rickshaws provide employment opportunities, the Dhaka City police chief noted their role in creating significant challenges, including congestion and safety concerns.

“We have to solve these problems,” he added.

Sajjat also urged rickshaw owners and drivers to refrain from operating on main roads, including bus routes, to alleviate congestion and enhance safety.

The DMP chief warned that legal action will be taken against battery-powered rickshaws entering Dhaka city from outside the capital.

Addressing broader issues within the transport sector, Sajjat issued a stern warning against extortion.

“No kind of extortion will be tolerated. Transport owners and workers will not pay any extortion to anyone,” he declared.

Sajjat also urged victims to report incidents of extortion to police.