Industries ministry for standardisation of battery-driven auto-rickshaw

The Ministry of Industries is poised to address issues surrounding battery-powered auto-rickshaws by establishing robust standards for their operation.

Despite challenges, there is optimism that these vehicles could be made safer and more efficient.

Senior Secretary of the Ministry of Industries, Zakia Sultana, made the comment on Monday during an event held on the eve of World Metrology Day 2024.

Bangladesh Standards and Testing Institution (BSTI) organised the discussion event held at the BSTI's headquarters in the city.

Industries Minister Nurul Majid Mahmud Humayun was the chief guest, while Zakia Sultana and Federation of Bangladesh Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FBCCI) President Mahbub Alam spoke as the special guests.

BSTI Director General SM Ferdous Alam presided over the event.

Zakia Sultana, expressing her concerns over accidents in operating battery-run rickshaws, suggested that the BSTI could play a crucial role in addressing the issue.

With approximately 2.0 million battery-powered rickshaws operating nationwide, they have become a significant source of employment and transportation for the people, said Ms Sultana.

By ensuring risk-free standard vehicles, no one would lose his/her job, she said.

Minister Humayun said the country’s economy has made noteworthy progress in recent decades.

He stressed the importance of ensuring products meet international standards to foster trust among consumers.

The minister advocated for expanding BSTI's scope and enhancing its manpower to meet evolving challenges.

The minister said the country’s market has already expanded to US$ 500 billion, while we are eyeing a trillion dollar economy.

To achieve the goal, our trade should be boosted both in the internal and external markets, he said.

He said that to achieve desired growth in the export sector, we will need quality products that could compete around the globe.

And BSTI and other standardisation entities in the country have a crucial role to play in ensuring quality testing lab facilities, the minister said.

Zakia Sultana, citing verses from the Sura Ar-Rahman of the Holy Al-Quran, urged fairness in transactions, measurement for the societal benefits of upholding integrity and quality standards.

She urged businesses not to compromise on product quality for profit, invoking a sense of responsibility towards consumers' health.

FBCCI President Mahbub Alam also echoed the sentiment, urging support for small traders and the need for BSTI officials to adopt a business-friendly approach to foster a smarter, more prosperous nation.

BSTI Director General SM Ferdous Alam said his organisation has taken on three big projects to expand the operation of the institution vastly across the country.

Under the project, ten international standard testing labs will be set up.

BSTI would further establish and modernise 67 physical and chemical labs, 21 national metrology labs, and many other extension projects, said Mr Alam.

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