Ride-sharing fares in Dhaka have risen sharply amid a persistent fuel shortage, leaving commuters struggling to cover routine trips. Passengers allege that drivers are charging arbitrarily, making daily travel increasingly expensive.
Ahmed Juel, a resident of Banasree who works at a private company in Gulshan-2, said his daily commute, which previously cost Tk 180–200, now demands Tk 250–300.
“Bike fares have nearly doubled under the pretext of the fuel shortage,” said Selim Mia, another commuter. “A trip that used to cost Tk 150 to 200 now costs Tk 250 to 300.”
Ride-sharing services have grown popular in Dhaka in recent years, especially among commuters relying on bikes to save time. However, the ongoing fuel crisis has added a significant cost to that convenience.
A survey of the capital revealed that drivers are charging higher fares across almost all areas, including Rampura Bridge, Hatirjheel, Karwan Bazar, Farmgate, Green Road, Shyamoli, Gabtoli, Mirpur-10, Uttara, Abdullahpur, Mohakhali, Banani, Badda, Sayedabad, and Jatrabari.
The surge comes as offices and courts reopened after the Eid holidays and more people returned to the city from villages, particularly affecting fares at Dhaka’s entry points.
Drivers, however, said that fuel prices have not increased, but supply shortages are forcing them to wait in long queues, resulting in lost working hours.
“It takes half a day just to get fuel, and even then, supplies are insufficient. We are left with no choice but to charge more,” said ride-sharing driver Sumon.
The fuel shortage has thus disrupted urban transport in Dhaka, creating difficulties for both passengers and drivers.