Bangladesh ambulance operators demand legal reforms to end police harassment
Ambulance operators in Bangladesh have called for urgent changes to vehicle registration rules. Over 9,000 privately run ambulances currently operate under a 'not for rent' classification, despite providing commercial services nationwide. The demands were raised during a recent meeting organized by the Bangladesh Ambulance Owners Welfare Association.
For years, privately owned ambulances have transported patients and bodies across the country. Yet their current registration status creates legal problems, as police frequently file cases against operators for running commercial services under a non-commercial category.
The association has now urged the government to issue special instructions. These would allow ambulances to continue working without disruption until proper reforms are introduced. They also demanded official recognition as an emergency service, similar to microbuses, which are already classified under emergency healthcare transport rules.
Operators face higher fees and stricter regulations due to the current system. To resolve this, they have requested commercial registration for their vehicles, enabling legal operation as 'vehicles for rent'. The group further called for an end to police harassment on the roads while the issue remains unresolved.
If no action is taken, the association warned of stronger protests in the coming weeks.
The proposed changes aim to legalize ambulance operations and reduce regulatory hurdles. Official recognition as an emergency service could also streamline their role in healthcare transport. Without reforms, operators say they will escalate their movement for fair treatment.
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