The Bangladesh Road Transport Authority (BRTA) has directed strict action against CNG- and petrol-run autorickshaw drivers who charge fares exceeding the meter rate. Under this directive, if found guilty of overcharging, a driver may face a fine of up to Tk50,000, six months' imprisonment, or both.
The directive, signed by BRTA Director (Engineering) Sitangshu Shekhar Bishwas, was issued on Monday. A letter regarding this matter has been sent to the commissioner of Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP).
According to the BRTA directive, under Section 35(3) of the Road Transport Act 2018, autorickshaws with route permits are obligated to transport passengers to any destination. Drivers cannot demand or collect fares higher than the meter rate.
The BRTA said: “Violation of this rule may result in penalties under Section 81 of the act, which includes a maximum fine of Tk50,000, six months' imprisonment, or both. Additionally, one point may be deducted from the driver’s licence.”
It added that any complaints regarding overcharging beyond the government-approved meter-based fare will be taken into consideration, and the relevant authorities have been instructed to file cases against the accused drivers.