National Desk: Bangladesh has introduced mandatory registration for battery-powered three-wheeled rickshaws operating in city corporation areas, under rules gazetted by the Local Government Division on October 29. City corporations, working with traffic authorities, will determine vehicle numbers, approved routes, zones and identifying colours.

According to a November 2 report by Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha (BSS), initial registration costs Tk 8,000 for a two-passenger vehicle and Tk 10,000 for a four-passenger model. Annual renewals cost Tk 4,000 and Tk 5,000 respectively. Approved vehicles are to receive QR-coded number plates and a registration booklet, with registration valid for five years.

The rules set a general maximum speed of 25 kilometres per hour, reduced to 15 kilometres near schools, hospitals and densely populated areas. E-rickshaws are barred from national highways, expressways and specified major corridors. Vehicle fitness, driver training, charging arrangements and safe disposal or recycling of used batteries are also addressed.

Officials say the framework is intended to improve road discipline and passenger safety. Its practical effects will depend on how registration costs, route access and enforcement are managed for small operators and drivers.

Source: BSS, November 2, 2026. Featured photograph is illustrative.