Bangladesh Road Transport Authority (BRTA) has granted an extended deadline until May 31 for bus owners to refurbish their aging fleets, aiming to enhance safety, aesthetics, and environmental impact on Dhaka’s streets.
Earlier plans to ban these dilapidated buses post-Eid-ul-Fitr have been adjusted to allow for a more systematic transformation of the sector. Recognizing the need for comprehensive changes, experts emphasize that mere cosmetic improvements won’t suffice.
A circular issued on May 2 underscores the detrimental effect of these buses on the capital’s visual appeal. Violation of Section 25 of the Road Transport Act 2018, which prohibits operating unfit and discolored vehicles, carries legal consequences.
Despite initial directives, many buses remained operational post-Eid, prompting phased refurbishments from bus owners to mitigate potential disruptions to public transportation. However, challenges persist as owners balance maintenance needs with operational demands.
Industry insiders highlight a systemic issue where buses receive attention only before fitness tests, neglecting ongoing maintenance thereafter. Dissatisfaction with existing practices extends to concerns about syndicates influencing parts prices and the absence of regulatory oversight.
Bus drivers echo frustrations, citing intense competition on the streets, which accelerates vehicle wear and tear. They stress the urgency for systemic reforms to alleviate pressures on drivers and ensure safer, more sustainable transportation.
Professor Md. Hadiuzzaman from Buet emphasizes the need for scientific road management beyond superficial solutions like repainting. He warns against the futility of cosmetic changes amid ongoing operational challenges and stresses the importance of collaborative efforts between BRTA and bus owners to instill discipline and longevity in the transport sector.
