Rangamati police launch digital transport database

Rangamati district police have formally launched an "Online Bus Terminal" and a digital database for CNG-run three-wheeler drivers.

These aim to enhance road safety, instil discipline in traffic management, prevent road accidents, and ensure safer journeys for passengers and tourists.

Dipen Dewan MP, Minister for Chattogram Hill Tracts Affairs, inaugurated the initiatives on 16 May at Rangamati Lakeview Garden.

Superintendent of Police Muhammad Abdur Rakib presided, with Deputy Commissioner Nazma Ashrafi as special guest.

Among others present were Rangamati district BNP Vice-President Saiful Islam Chowdhury Bhutto; Saiful Islam Panir; General Secretary Mamunur Rashid; Rangamati Press Club President Anwar Al Haque; General Secretary Muhammad Ilias; and leaders from political parties, transport owners, and drivers' organisations.

At the event, the Rangamati district police traffic division distributed stickers with the message "No helmet, no ride." They also gave out helmets to encourage motorcycle riders and passengers to wear them.

Police said Rangamati is one of the country's major tourist destinations and draws large numbers of tourists daily, alongside local passengers. However, the lack of an integrated digital system had long created challenges in monitoring vehicles and drivers, managing traffic, and ensuring passenger safety.

In this context, the technology-driven initiative is regarded as a timely and effective measure.

Under the programme, a centralised digital database has been developed for all CNG-run three-wheelers and their drivers in Rangamati town. To date, data on 1,416 registered CNG-run three-wheelers and over 1,000 drivers have been collected.

Police stated that digital stickers bearing QR codes will be affixed to registered vehicles. Passengers and tourists can scan the codes to access key information, such as the driver's photograph, name, address, and mobile number.

Passengers will be able to rate transport services. They can also provide feedback on vehicle speed, driver behaviour, and service standards. Drivers' overall ratings will be based on passenger feedback, enabling future passengers to make informed decisions.

Police say they will analyse passenger feedback to identify both efficient and risky drivers. This process will improve safety and contribute to a more tourist-friendly transport system.

The Online Bus Terminal system will improve information management for tourist and passenger buses, enhance services, and reduce congestion through digital parking management.

Tourist buses entering Rangamati throughout the year—including during peak tourism season—will need to complete digital registration before entry. Tourists and bus operators will get parking information and instructions via email or mobile message.

Police state that digital parking management for tourist buses has already instilled greater discipline in bus operations, reduced random parking and positively impacted congestion in the town.

The initiatives are expected to boost accountability in traffic management, reduce congestion and irregularities, curb passenger harassment, and help make Rangamati a safer, modern, and tourism-friendly hill district.