The Rickshaw, Battery-Powered Rickshaw-Van, and Easy Bike Sangram Parishad staged a demonstration in front of the Jatiya Press Club on Saturday, presenting a seven-point demand aimed at resolving their challenges and securing their livelihoods.
Leaders and activists of the Parishad gathered during the demonstrations, urging the government to take immediate steps to meet their demands.
They have set a deadline of seven days for the High Court to reconsider its stance on the use of battery-run rickshaws in the Dhaka metropolitan area and to find a solution for the issue through licences and route permits.
The organisation threatened to hold rallies in districts across the country on Nov 30 in solidarity with the drivers in Dhaka if a solution is not found.
Battery-run rickshaws, illegal CNG auto-rickshaws to be banned from tomorrow in Sylhet city
Their demands include:
Registration and Licensing: The Parishad called for the registration of electric bikes, rickshaws, and other battery-operated vehicles under existing regulatory frameworks, along with licences and route permits for drivers.
Modernisation of Vehicles: They emphasised the need to address technical faults in battery-powered vehicles and ensure their modernisation to improve efficiency and safety.
Compensation for Victims: The Parishad demanded adequate compensation for all workers who have been injured or killed during mass uprisings involving students, workers, and the general public.
Establishment of Charging Stations: To prevent electricity theft and wastage, they urged the government to set up dedicated charging stations across the country.
DMP takes action against 19,962 battery-run rickshaws in Dhaka during weeklong drive
Worker Benefits: They advocated for rationing at army rates, pension schemes, and free healthcare facilities for all workers.
The demonstrators argued that battery-powered vehicles play a vital role in ensuring affordable and sustainable transportation for millions.
The Parishad leaders warned of further protests if their demands are not met immediately.
