The Ministry of Industries is poised to address issues surrounding battery-run rickshaws by establishing robust standards for their operation.
Despite challenges, there is optimism that these vehicles could be made safer and more efficient.
Senior Secretary of the Industries Ministry Zakia Sultana made the comments marking the World Metrology Day 2024 on Monday.
Bangladesh Standards and Testing Institution (BSTI) organised the discussion event held at the BSTI's headquarter in the city.
The day is being observed this year with the theme "We measure today for a sustainable tomorrow."
Industries Minister Nurul Majid Mahmud Humayun was the chief guest while Zakia Sultana and Federation of Bangladesh Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FBCCI) president Mahbubul Alam spoke as the special guests.
BSTI Director General SM Ferdous Alam presided over the event.
Zakia Sultana expressed her concerns such as accidents in operating battery-run rickshaws, suggesting that the BSTI could play a crucial role in addressing the issue.
With approximately 2.0 million battery-powered rickshaws operating nationwide, they have become a significant source of employment and transportation in many countries, said Ms Sultana.
By ensuring risk-free standard vehicles, no one would lose his/her job, she said.
Minister Humayun said the country's economy has made a noteworthy progress in recent decades.
He stressed the importance of ensuring products meet international quality standards to foster trust among consumers.
The Minister advocated for expanding BSTI's scope and enhancing its manpower to meet evolving challenges.
The Minister also said that the country's market has already expanded to US $ 500 billion while we are eyeing to be a trillion dollar economy.
Top achieve the goal, our trade should be boosted both in the internal and external markets, he added.
He further said to archive desired growth in the exporting sector, we will need to produce quality product which could compete in the globe.
BSTI and other standardisation entities of the country have the crucial roles to play through ensuring quality testing lab facility, the minister said.
Zakia Sultana citing verses from the Sura Ar-Rahman of the Holy Al-Quran, urged fairness in transactions, measurement for the societal benefits of upholding integrity and quality standards.
She urged businesses not to compromise on product quality for profit, invoking a sense of responsibility towards consumers' health.
FBCCI President Mahbubul Alam also echoed the sentiment, urged for support for small traders and the need for BSTI officials to adopt a business-friendly approach to foster a smarter, more prosperous nation.
BSTI Director General SM Ferdous Alam said his organisation has taken three big projects to expand operation of the Institution vastly across the country.
Under the projects ten international standard testing labs will be set up.
BSTI would further establish and mordenise 67 physical and chemical labs, 21 national metrology labs and other infrastructures, said Mr Alam.
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