Every day across the busy streets of Dhaka, thousands of rickshaw pullers navigate their way through traffic and hardship, simply to earn enough to survive. For many of them, the struggle doesn’t end even when the day is done. At night, fear of theft keeps them awake, forcing some to sleep in their rickshaws — chained and locked — in hopes of protecting the only source of their livelihood.

A photo recently circulating on social media shows a rickshaw puller asleep on his vehicle, with a metal chain tied securely around the rickshaw to prevent theft. The image has struck a chord with many, serving as a stark reminder of the often-overlooked suffering of the city’s working class.

One rickshaw puller shared his experience:

“I try to sleep at night, but I can never really rest. There’s always the fear that someone might steal my rickshaw. This is all I have — if it’s gone, I’m finished.”

Kicks, Yelling, and Humiliation

The challenges don’t stop at night. During the day, many rickshaw pullers face routine mistreatment from pedestrians and commuters. It’s not uncommon for people to kick their rickshaws or yell at them to move aside. Some are even shoved or verbally abused — actions that would be unthinkable if the vehicle in question were a luxury car.

Once the backbone of Dhaka’s transport system, rickshaws and their operators now face a glaring lack of respect. A kick to a rickshaw is not just a blow to metal — it’s a blow to the dignity of the person who pulls it.

No Safety Net, No Support

There are no designated rest areas, no formal protections, and little hope of justice if a rickshaw is stolen. Police reports often lead nowhere. Many rickshaw pullers either rent their rickshaws or have invested their life savings into buying one. Losing it means losing everything — and they live with that fear constantly.

A Call for Empathy and Awareness

This situation raises an uncomfortable question: Have we really built an equitable society? Do we view rickshaw pullers and other laborers with the respect they deserve?

These individuals keep the city moving, yet they’re treated as disposable. A shift in perspective — both socially and institutionally — is desperately needed.

Conclusion

Rickshaw pullers don’t just turn wheels — they keep families afloat. They deserve safety, dignity, and fair treatment. As a society, we must do more than just pass them by. We must recognize their humanity, protect their rights, and ensure they are seen, heard, and respected.