Press Release
Dhaka, 07 March 2024: On 05 March 2024, Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB) released a research report titled "Integrity in Private Bus Transport Business." Following the publication of findings related to the role of the Bangladesh Road Transport Authority (BRTA), BRTA Chairman Nur Mohammad Majumder, at a press conference on 06 March 2024, outright rejected the findings of the report. TIB expresses concern over this denial of facts rather than taking appropriate measures based on reality, as it may risk shielding irregularities and corruption and hinder the implementation of the government’s declared commitment to zero tolerance against corruption.
It is worth noting that TIB's research followed established social science research methods and was based on qualitative and quantitative data collected and analyzed from individuals directly or indirectly involved in the private bus transport business, as well as from current and former officials from relevant government and non-government sectors, civil society representatives, service recipients, experts, and media personnel. The survey part of the research included structured questionnaires administered to bus owners, workers, and passengers. The survey was conducted using representative sampling from 32 out of the 64 districts in Bangladesh. It followed the highest standards and practices in statistical science, with all necessary measures taken to ensure its scientific rigor and methodological integrity. Furthermore, all data presented is based on the experience of respondents, which TIB has merely analyzed and presented. To ensure the credibility and quality of the research, all specific information was verified and validated through multiple sources using appropriate methods.।
The BRTA has described the findings related to its operations as "detached from reality, fictional, assumption-based, fabricated, and intentional." TIB considers this a cowardly act and a reflection of an unwillingness to accept criticism. Below is TIB's explanation regarding relevant parts of BRTA’s written statement.
BRTA’s Comment on Interviewing Key Informants: "The report shows BRTA as a key informant, which is untrue. Moreover, BRTA was not informed prior to the publication of this report."
TIB's Response: The BRTA Chairman has made a false statement. On 25 September 2023, a letter signed by the Executive Director of TIB (Ref: TIB/R&P/BAPBShu/2023/234) was sent to the BRTA Chairman Mr. Nur Mohammad Majumder, requesting an interview with him or a nominated representative. Later, although the Chairman invited the research team on 23 October 2023 for an interview, he was not present at his office, and the interview could not be conducted. On 12 November 2023, following several phone communications, he gave five minutes for the interview but declined to provide any information. Even after requesting him to nominate another official, he refused. Despite repeated follow-ups, the BRTA office did not respond positively. However, TIB’s research team independently interviewed several responsible BRTA officials from Dhaka and other districts.
BRTA’s Comment on Bribery, Corruption, or Harassment in Receiving Services and 30-Day Service Time: "After online application submission, the vehicle is inspected on the appointed date and registration is completed on the same day. Therefore, the report’s claim of bribery, corruption, or harassment and an average service time of 30 working days is false and imaginary."
TIB's Response: TIB collected and analyzed data through a structured questionnaire from 168 bus owners. The findings regarding delays and irregularities in vehicle registration are based on this survey. According to respondents, it takes an average of 30 working days to complete registration for each bus (while the government-set time is 1 to 14 days), and 41.9% of bus owners reported paying bribes or unofficial fees. There is no justification for calling this data false or imaginary.
BRTA’s Comment on Bribery or Harassment During Fitness Certificate Renewal: "Since 15 October 2020, online appointment has been mandatory. Based on the inspection on the scheduled date, a fitness certificate is issued the same day within 15 minutes to 1 hour. Therefore, the claim of bribery or harassment is baseless and intentional."
TIB's Response: According to bus owners surveyed by TIB, it took an average of 13 days to issue or renew a fitness certificate in the past year. Of them, 46.3% reported having to pay bribes. Many also mentioned collusion with officials to issue certificates without actual inspection. TIB’s sole objective in reporting this is to serve the public interest.
BRTA’s Comment on Delays in Route Permit Issuance/Renewal: "Route permits are issued based on recommendations of the relevant Passenger and Goods Transport Committee through a digital system. Delays may occur due to late meetings but never as long as 45 days, nor is there any corruption."
TIB's Response: According to the survey, it takes an average of 45 working days for route permit issuance or renewal. 42.6% of bus owners reported paying bribes or unofficial payments. TIB has not presented any findings from its own assumptions but only reflected the respondents' input.
BRTA’s General Comment on Bribery in Registration, Fitness Certificates, and Route Permits: "BRTA strongly protests and rejects the report’s assumption-based and intentional claims, which damage the image of BRTA and the government."
TIB's Response: TIB’s research followed standard social science methods. Data was collected through structured questionnaires from a representative sample of three categories of stakeholders. Therefore, it is not assumption-based or biased. It appears BRTA involved the government in its statement to deflect responsibility. If the findings have harmed BRTA’s image, instead of rejection, it would be more prudent to act on TIB's recommendations.
TIB believes this research does not harm the government’s image. Rather, it supports the government’s commitment to zero tolerance against corruption and examines integrity in an important sector like the private bus transport business. As a key stakeholder in this sector, if BRTA agrees to collaborate, TIB is ready to provide support in promoting integrity. TIB thanks BRTA for acknowledging that the recommendations are constructive and realistic and hopes the authority will implement them soon to play a leading role in ensuring integrity in the private bus transport sector.
Media Contact:
Mohammad Tauhidul Islam
Director, Outreach and Communication
Mobile: +8801713-107868
Email: tauhidul@ti-bangladesh.org
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