GPS Tracking Now Mandatory for Public Transport in Bangladesh

GPS devices are now mandatory on all public transport vehicles in Bangladesh as part of a government effort to improve road safety, monitor vehicle movement and strengthen route management.

The requirement took effect on August 1. Under the new rules, public transport vehicles without an installed and functioning GPS device will not be eligible for new registration or for the issuance or renewal of a fitness certificate.

The Bangladesh Road Transport Authority (BRTA) announced the requirement in a public notice issued on July 28.

According to the notice, the Road Transport and Highways Division issued a directive on June 11 as part of efforts to establish a safer and more orderly road transport system.

From August 1, operators applying for vehicle registration or the issuance or renewal of a fitness certificate must provide proof that a GPS device has been installed. They must also show that the device is active through the relevant mobile application.

The BRTA said technical specifications for the GPS devices are available at its local offices and on the agency's website.

Under Section 25 of the Road Transport Act 2018 and Rule 55 of the Road Transport Rules 2022, the BRTA will issue or renew registration and fitness certificates for public transport vehicles only after confirming that the required GPS system has been installed.

The authority urged transport owners, operators and other stakeholders to cooperate in implementing the new requirement.