Laptop use in rickshaw driver training has become a topic of public discussion after Dhaka North City Corporation (DNCC) allocated around BDT 60 million for purchasing laptops and projectors for 300 master trainers. These trainers will provide instruction to electric rickshaw (e-rickshaw) drivers, as part of a broader initiative to modernize urban transport and bring order to Dhaka’s chaotic rickshaw system.
Each master trainer will receive a laptop and projector to facilitate visual presentations on traffic rules, safety awareness, and technical understanding of BUET-designed e-rickshaws.
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📊 Training Budget Breakdown
According to DNCC’s finance division:
BDT 5.48 million has been allocated for creating 300 master trainers
Each trainer received BDT 1,000 daily allowance during the 3-day training, plus food and snacks
BDT 60 million has been reserved for purchasing laptops and projectors (approx. BDT 200,000 per set)
Training was conducted in late June in partnership with BRAC Road Safety Programme, which also developed the presentation materials.
🚦 Pilot Run of BUET E-Rickshaws
BUET’s Mechanical Engineering Department developed an upgraded model of e-rickshaw, with safety features like hydraulic brakes and energy efficiency systems. These rickshaws are set to be launched on a pilot basis in areas like Paltan, Dhanmondi, and Uttara.
Each vehicle is expected to cost around BDT 145,000. Existing unregulated battery-operated rickshaws will be phased out gradually, with the government offering microcredit support via Bangladesh Bank and the MRA to help drivers switch.
🧑🏫 Training Content and Methodology
Trainers learned presentation techniques, communication skills, and technical knowledge
Second day involved simulation of real training sessions
Final day focused on BUET’s e-rickshaw design and operations
Trainers were selected from police (100), youth development program (200), including 175 from anti-discrimination movements
The laptops and projectors are to be used for maintaining databases, explaining traffic behavior, accident prevention, and driver awareness via visual aids.
🚗 Key Features of BUET’s E-Rickshaw
Max speed: 30 km/h
Load capacity: 325–425 kg
Safety: Hydraulic brakes, secure passenger space
Design: Mild steel and lightweight aluminum for durability
Charging: Dedicated government-approved charging points
📣 Public Concerns and Criticism
Mozammel Haque Chowdhury, Secretary General of Bangladesh Passenger Welfare Association, stated:
“Unless laptop and projector usage is monitored for effectiveness, this could become just another failed government project. We hope this time, it brings real discipline to the streets.”
While the investment seems promising, concerns remain regarding proper implementation and long-term impact.
Laptop use in rickshaw driver training reflects an attempt to modernize urban transport and uplift informal transport workers. However, transparency, monitoring, and effective execution will determine whether this BDT 60 million initiative leads to real change—or becomes another bureaucratic expenditure without impact.
