Tk4,000 crore lost, 16% accidents, 80% kids lead exposure
The rapid expansion of electric three-wheelers, widely known as “Banglar Tesla,” is causing an estimated Tk4,000 crore annual loss, primarily due to illegal electricity use, warns a new CPD study.
Safety data shows that in 2024, e-rickshaws were involved in 16.5% of reported road accidents and 21% of road fatalities. Many vehicles use braking systems designed for pedal rickshaws, unsuitable for motorized operation.
These vehicles also consume nearly 5% of Bangladesh’s daily electricity, equivalent to around 750 MW. In Dhaka, 48,000 illegal charging points have emerged compared with only 3,300 government-approved stations, causing power theft, grid instability, and fire risks.
Public health risks are growing due to lead-acid battery use. About 35 million children nationwide have elevated lead exposure, while in Dhaka, 80% of tested children exceed the WHO’s safe lead threshold.
Despite providing livelihoods for four million drivers and transporting 112 million passengers daily, the sector faces regulatory, safety, environmental, and health challenges, underscoring the need for urgent formalisation.
DTCA officials note that existing laws are not effectively enforced. Rickshaws would remain only as feeder services on neighbourhood roads, not on main roads, under the upcoming Greater Dhaka multi-modal transport plan.
Licensing for electric three-wheelers should be issued only if LiFePO₄ batteries are used, with city corporations leading the transition to ensure safer, more efficient, and cost-effective operations.
People use these e-rickshaws mainly for convenience and time-saving. To reduce dependence, the DTCA must make public buses more available, safer, and reliable. Currently, buses lack proper safety, maintenance, and regulation, so simply offering a better alternative would help.
Source: CPD