With a global presence that already spans more than 450 cities worldwide, it isn’t often that Uber expands into new countries, but just two days ago the U.S. ride-sharing giant drove into Bangladesh for the first time.
Uber’s operation in Dhaka has been declared illegal by transport authorities two days after the app-based taxi service was launched in the capital.
The service was in violation of motor vehicle regulations, said a notice issued by the Bangladesh Road Transport Authority (BRTA) on Friday.
Uber’s owners and drivers have been warned against continuing the service which, according to the notice, did not have BRTA’s approval.
Uber’s system is designed around drivers who use their personal cars to provide services to users who order taxis on their smartphones.
Individuals owning cars can register to become Uber drivers and earn fares by picking up passengers near their locations.
BRTA’s announcement said news articles about Uber’s launch on various newspapers caught its attention.
“The online-based taxi service ‘Uber’ is being operated completely against the law and motor vehicle regulations. Uber authorities and drivers are being urged to refrain from such illegal activities.
“Otherwise they will face stern legal measures.”
