Dhaka, Feb 16 (V7N) – The Bangladesh Road Transport Authority (BRTA) has withdrawn its directive that mandated the use of meters for CNG-powered auto-rickshaws and imposed a Tk 50,000 fine for overcharging passengers.

The Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) confirmed the decision in a statement sent to the media on Sunday morning. The message clarified that the recent BRTA directive regarding four-stroke three-wheeler vehicles had been canceled as of today.

Earlier in the day, CNG auto-rickshaw drivers staged protests across various roads in Dhaka, causing severe traffic congestion. The protests were sparked by the enforcement of strict fines for not using meters.

The DMP has urged all parties to withdraw the blockades and avoid obstructing traffic.

This decision marks a reversal of the BRTA’s attempt to regulate fares, which had faced strong opposition from drivers who claim that metered fares are insufficient to cover rising fuel and maintenance costs.

END/MSS/AJ