Dhaka, Feb 12, (V7N) - The Bangladesh Road Transport Authority (BRTA) has formally requested the police to file cases against CNG-run auto-rickshaw drivers who demand fares exceeding the government-approved meter rate. In a letter issued last Monday, signed by BRTA's Director of Engineering, Shitanshu Shekhar Biswas, the authority emphasized the need for strict enforcement of fare regulations.

The letter highlights that for gas or petrol-powered, four-stroke, three-wheeled auto-rickshaws, any demand for a fare above the amount displayed on the meter is illegal. The BRTA specifically mentioned that under the Road Transport Act’s Section 35(3), drivers and owners of contract carriages (auto-rickshaws) are required to follow the established route permits and adhere to the government-approved fare schedule. Charging more than the designated fare is not permitted.
 
To ensure compliance, the BRTA reminded that offenders could face severe penalties under Section 81 of the Road Transport Act. Violators could be subjected to a maximum prison sentence of six months or a fine of up to Tk 50,000, or both. Additionally, drivers caught overcharging will also face a penalty point deduction, which can further impact their driving record.
 
The BRTA's move comes after numerous complaints from passengers regarding overcharging by auto-rickshaw drivers, especially in busy areas. The regulatory authority has requested law enforcement agencies to act promptly and take necessary legal actions against offenders.
 
The BRTA’s letter serves as a reminder to auto-rickshaw drivers to comply with the law and ensures that passengers are charged fairly according to the approved rates. The authorities hope that this initiative will curb the widespread issue of overcharging and ensure transparency in the transportation sector.
 
END/RH/SMA/