For many small cities, improving mobility and emergency services with limited resources is a major challenge. The city of Singra in Bangladesh has addressed this issue by transforming traditional rickshaws into an innovative electric transport system that supports both daily mobility and emergency healthcare.
With a population of just over 30,000, Singra historically lacked a formal public transport system. Rickshaws served as the primary mode of travel for low- and middle-income residents.
However, many drivers began informally converting pedal rickshaws into electric ones by installing motors and batteries without proper safety standards. Combined with the absence of organised charging infrastructure, this created growing safety concerns.
To address the problem, the city government introduced a regulated e-rickshaw system and integrated it into public transport and emergency services. With financial and technical support from international partners, the initiative introduced a fleet of lithium-ion battery-powered vehicles, improving safety, efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
The city also established a designated parking and charging station and launched a 24-hour call centre to coordinate transportation and emergency medical services. Ambulance services provided through the system are free for low-income residents.
Since its launch, the initiative has generated around 80% of expected municipal revenue, while e-rickshaws serve approximately 5,000 passengers daily. The call centre also handles around 40 emergency service requests each month.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, these vehicles played an important role in transporting healthcare workers, delivering essential supplies and supporting vulnerable communities.
Singra’s experience demonstrates how small cities can leverage simple technological innovations to improve mobility, create jobs and strengthen urban resilience.
This initiative was recognised as a Deserving Initiative of the 2020 Guangzhou Award.
Learn more about global urban innovation through the Guangzhou Award:
https://www.guangzhouaward.org
