The Bangladesh Road Transport Authority (BRTA) has made installation and activation of Global Positioning System (GPS) devices compulsory for all public transport vehicles nationwide from Saturday, in a bid to restore order on the roads.
Under the directive, BRTA will not issue or renew registration and fitness certificates without proof of active GPS connectivity, verified through the designated mobile application during inspection.
The measure is being enforced under the Road Transport Act, 2018, and Road Transport Rules, 2022.
BRTA Chairman Habibur Rahman said vehicles must be equipped with GPS before arriving for registration or fitness checks, adding that a verification system has been introduced to ensure proper installation and functionality.
The Bangladesh Road Transport Owners’ Association welcomed the initiative but voiced concern over the deadline.
Organising Secretary Jahangir Alam Khan said contracts had been signed with suppliers, but full rollout by 1 August was not feasible, urging more time.
Authorities expect GPS technology to improve monitoring by tracking location, speed and routes, aiding detection of speeding, route deviations and unnecessary stoppages.
Data will also support accident investigations, while future plans include central monitoring and passenger apps for bus tracking.
The system is expected to help owners manage fleets, monitor fuel use, prevent theft, and respond quickly to complaints or emergencies.
Road safety experts, however, cautioned that technology alone cannot resolve systemic issues. They questioned its effectiveness in expired or dilapidated vehicles, saying success depends on oversight and broader transport management reforms.
