Bangladesh government introduces new regulations for battery-run rickshaws

The Bangladesh Local Government Division has issued new rules to regulate battery-run, low-speed three-wheeled rickshaws (e-rickshaws) within city corporation areas. The 2026 regulations aim to bring discipline to the transport system by making registration and licensing mandatory.

Under the new framework, each e-rickshaw must be registered with a unique QR-code-based registration number and number plate. Registration will be valid for five years, with a maximum of five vehicles allowed per national identity card. To ensure safety, registration and renewal will require a fitness certificate based on technical specifications from the Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET).

Key restrictions include a ban on e-rickshaws operating on national highways, expressways, elevated expressways, and BRT corridors. They are also prohibited from using footpaths. Drivers must adhere to lane discipline, avoid illegal overtaking, and refrain from using mobile phones while driving. Additionally, the rules mandate that vehicles be equipped with speedometers or odometers and will introduce insurance coverage in phases.