ULA bans motorcycle driving for those under 16

By Admin 10 Aug 2026

DMG Newsroom

10 August 2026, Mrauk-U

The Department of Transportation under the United League of Arakan (ULA) issued an order on August 9 prohibiting individuals under the age of 16 from riding motorcycles in areas controlled by the Arakan Army across Arakan State.

The directive also prohibits individuals under 18 from driving cars and other motor vehicles. On August 9, authorities issued six regulations governing cars and other motor vehicles, along with four specific rules for motorcycle use.

Under the new regulations, individuals under 18 are prohibited from driving cars and other motor vehicles.

Drivers and passengers in motor vehicles must wear seatbelts at all times. Speed limits for cars have been set at 30 kilometres per hour within town limits and 80 km/h outside urban areas.

Three-wheelers and other vehicles must observe speed limits of 30 km/h within towns and 50 km/h outside urban areas. Driving cars or other motor vehicles under the influence of alcohol is also strictly prohibited.

For motorcycles, individuals under 16 are explicitly prohibited from driving. Eligible riders may carry no more than one passenger, and both the rider and passenger must wear helmets with their chin straps securely fastened.

Authorities stated that individuals who fail to comply with the regulations will face legal action under penalties established by the ULA.

Reckless motorcycle driving by minors has become increasingly common in areas controlled by the Arakan Army, posing serious risks to road safety and pedestrians.

Local residents have called for strict enforcement, noting that large numbers of underage students frequently ride motorcycles at high speeds.

The ULA has been enforcing traffic and road safety regulations across its controlled areas since 2025, stating that the latest order is intended to protect public lives and safety.