Dhaka: Adviser to Ministries of Shipping and Labor and Employment Brig Gen (retd) Dr. M Sakhawat Hussain today emphasized the government’s ongoing commitment to ensuring the safety and security of the country’s inland waterways. The Ministry of Shipping has already implemented several initiatives to bolster maritime safety. The announcement was made during the inauguration of the ‘Maritime Safety Week 2025’ held at the Krishibid Institution Auditorium, organized by the Department of Shipping, as stated in a ministry press release.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, regular campaigns are underway to prevent the movement of vessels lacking fitness certification. The authorities have been tasked with overseeing the issuance and renewal of route permits and licenses for all vessels to maintain safety standards. Vessel owners have been advised against overloading with passengers or goods, and restrictions have been placed on bulkhead movement during nighttime.
Sakhawat highlighted that the Bangladesh Inland Water Transport Authority (BIWTA) is actively engaging in regular dredging to maintain river navigability. Special patrols by law enforcement agencies have been deployed in crime-prone areas to enhance waterway security. Additionally, mobile courts are being conducted regularly, and steps have been taken to eliminate extortion at the ghats.
Referring to the four seaports, including one deep-sea port, the adviser noted that the current government has initiated efforts to extend waterways to remote areas. Presently, 80 percent of goods are transported via waterways, with direct ferry services introduced in Sandwip and Maheshkhali. The Bangladesh Shipping Corporation is contributing significantly to expanding international maritime trade, with plans to purchase four ships to boost trade, employment, and foreign exchange earnings. The government also intends to acquire LPG container ships.
The Department of Shipping is celebrating Maritime Safety Week from today to May 13, aiming to ensure the safety of passenger and goods transport vessels while raising awareness. The theme for this year’s Maritime Safety Week 2025 is ‘Pollution-free Rivers and Safe Vessels; Healthy Environment, and Protection of Lives.’
The inaugural ceremony was chaired by the Director General of the Department of Shipping, Commodore Mohammad Maksud Alam, with Senior Secretary of the Ministry of Shipping Mohammed Yousuf also addressing the gathering as a special guest.