Chattogram: Bangladesh Inland Water Transport Corporation (BIWTC) is set to launch luxury ship services between two coastal districts and the port city of Chattogram starting Thursday, March 20. The new services aim to enhance connectivity and provide a more comfortable travel option for passengers.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, two modern ships, MV Baro Awlia and MV Karnafuly Express, will operate daily services between Chattogram Sadarghat and Charfashion, Manpura, and Dhalchar in Bhola, via Hatiya in Noakhali. Each day, a launch will depart from Chattogram Sadarghat at 8 a.m. for Noakhali and Charfashion in Bhola, while another will leave Betua Ghat in Charfashion at the same time, heading towards Chattogram Sadarghat.
Previously, these ships operated on the same route for nearly a month one and a half years ago. However, the service was halted by a launch owners’ syndicate due to illegal interests during the Awami League’s regime. The reintroduction of this service is expected to provide a regular and reliable mode of transportation for the residents and travelers along this route.
BIWTC sources revealed that the ships will make scheduled stops at Hatia upazila in Noakhali, followed by Dhalchar and Ramnewaz launch ghat in Manpura upazila, before proceeding to Mangal Sikder ghat in Lalmohon upazila, and ultimately reaching Betua launch ghat in Charfashion upazila. Both vessels will adhere to the same travel schedule daily on their respective routes.
M Al-Amin, BIWTC Bhola region manager (marine), stated that the Baro Awlia is a dependable and swift river vessel, while the Karnafuly Express, a private ship, will operate in coordination with BIWTC to transport passengers efficiently. This initiative is expected to significantly benefit the local communities and boost regional connectivity.