Dbarta24 Report — In a major step toward curbing government expenditure and managing national fuel consumption, the administration has withdrawn police protection escorts for 18 ministers.
However, the specialized security convoy will remain in place for one government advisor and six senior cabinet ministers.
The decision was officially executed by the Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) on July 20 as part of broader institutional reforms aimed at streamlining public resources.
While the dedicated police escort pick-up trucks have been removed, official sources confirmed that standard security protocols—including personal gunmen, residential guards, and specialized police cover during official tours outside the capital—will remain intact in accordance with government regulations.
Typically, a minister’s escort protocol consists of a dedicated police pick-up vehicle carrying a team of one Sub-Inspector (SI) and four constables.
The operational costs, fuel expenses, and daily allowances for these units are drawn directly from the national exchequer.
Removing these vehicle escorts for 18 ministers is expected to yield immediate savings in public funds and alleviate administrative pressure on police transport and logistics.
This move aligns with a broader austerity drive championed by Prime Minister Tariq Rahman, who recently downsized his own presidential and ministerial convoy details.
Demonstrating a hands-on approach to public efficiency, the Prime Minister has also opted out of special traffic privileges on city roads, requiring his motorcade to observe standard traffic signals alongside regular commuters.
According to DMP sources, the government’s strategic shift comes in response to ongoing fuel supply constraints, the imperative to limit state expenditure, and the pressing need to address shortages of manpower and vehicles within the police department.