Innovision Consulting’s Digest 1 analyses the immediate COVID-19 impact on rickshaw pullers in Dhaka, one of the most vulnerable groups within the low-income population. A rapid survey of 30 rickshaw pullers across three clusters was conducted on March 26, 2020. 70% of respondents reported reduced daily income compared to the previous day. While some experienced a slight temporary increase due to fewer rickshaws on the streets, the overall trend pointed to growing pressure.
Most rickshaw pullers carry loans taken for house construction (33%) and medical treatment (33%). If income loss continues, 60% plan to cut expenses after 15 days. However, 80% say they will be forced to leave Dhaka and return to their villages if accumulated losses reach BDT 25,000–50,000, rising to 100% at BDT 50,000–100,000.
The majority migrated from northern districts (Rangpur, Rajshahi, Mymensingh). Innovision Consulting recommends targeted social safety nets in rural areas after 15 days of income decline, along with measures to stabilise prices of essential food items and provide grace periods for informal loan repayments. These steps will protect this large low-income group from deeper distress and prevent heavy reverse migration pressure on villages.
Read the full report here: Link
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