The report was prepared after surveying 39 buses, 22 trucks and 22 CNG-run autorickshaws. Twenty-eight factors, including fitness certificate, condition of wheel and smoke discharge, were taken into consideration.
Lawyer Rafikul Islam submitted the report on behalf of BRTA before the bench of Justice Moyeenul Islam Chowdhury and Justice Md Ashraful Kamal. Tanvir Ahmed stood for the petitioner.
BRTA found 56 percent buses did not have speed control seals while 59 percent lacked proper engine numbers, and 44 percent autorickshaws used expired gas cylinders.
Highlighting shortcomings, the report noted that the survey team had to make decisions on presumptions due to the lack of proper equipment. The survey was conducted at fixed time and places. Presumably, many drivers had learned about it and avoided the specific spots.
Following a writ petition filed on July 26 by lawyer Tanvir Ahmed, the HC on July 31 ordered formation of a 15-member national inspection committee to examine the fitness of public transports of the country. The committee was ordered to file a report within three months.
Road Transport and Highways Division Additional Secretary Rowshan Ara Begum was the committee’s convener.
The BRTA report recommended controlling unfit vehicles to prevent road crashes and ensuring discipline on roads. It suggested conducting scientific survey on public transport to identify the intensity of problem.