Motorization of Paddle Rickshaws in Bangladesh: A Socio-Economic Evaluation

Abstract

There has been a dramatic increase in the number of motorized rickshaws in Bangladesh in recent years. The development represents an improvement over traditional paddle rickshaws in several ways, including speed, comfort, and convenience. This study aimed to examine the process of motorization of paddle rickshaws in Bangladesh and its socio-economic impacts on the rickshaw pullers. The findings revealed that the motorization of rickshaws has significantly impacted the socio-economic conditions of rickshaw pullers in Bangladesh. The motorization of rickshaws has led to an increase in their daily income and improved their working conditions. The process of motorization of rickshaws has been driven by the desire for improved financial stability and the desire to provide better services to customers. However, the motorization of rickshaws has had some negative impacts, such as the lack of safety measures in locally designed motorization, an increase in the risk of fatal accidents, and a relatively high initial cost. This study provides valuable insights into the process and impacts of the motorization of rickshaws in Bangladesh. The findings highlight the need for policy interventions to address the challenges faced by rickshaw pullers in motorizing their rickshaws while also ensuring that they reap the maximum benefits from motorization. It contributes to the growing body of research on the socio-economic impacts of motorization in developing countries and can inform policy-making aimed at improving the lives of rickshaw pullers in Bangladesh and beyond.