Dhaka: State Minister for Shipping Md. Razib Ahsan has announced that special launch services will begin operating from Bosila Launch Ghat and Shimulia Launch Ghat tomorrow. This initiative aims to alleviate the passenger congestion typically seen at Sadarghat during the Eid travel period.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the announcement was made during a visit by the minister to the Sadarghat Launch Terminal and Bosila Launch Ghat. During his visit, Ahsan reviewed passenger services, assessed security measures, and monitored terminal management activities. He also provided guidance to the relevant officials to ensure smooth operations.
The minister highlighted that the government has undertaken significant development and renovation projects in the Dhaka River Port (Sadarghat) area. These efforts are designed to provide safe, orderly, and affordable water transport for travelers, especially during the Eid-ul-Azha holiday. Ahsan emphasized that these initiatives have been reinforced to make travel by waterways both easier and safer during this festive period.
Ahsan mentioned that the launch fares are currently lower than the government-approved rates, with digital fare lists introduced on every launch to help passengers easily access official fare information. Additionally, free porter and trolley services will be available for five days before and after Eid to minimize passenger inconvenience. Wheelchair services will also be provided for elderly and sick passengers through cadets.
To enhance passenger comfort, the minister stated that waiting rooms with adequate seating and rest facilities have been arranged at the terminals. Additional staff have been deployed to maintain cleanliness, and monitoring has been intensified to manage hawkers in the terminal area.
The state minister also noted that supervision by the river police and coast guard has been increased to prevent risky boarding and disembarking from launches. Two low-step pontoons have been installed on the eastern and western sides of the terminal to assist passengers in safely boarding and disembarking.
Ahsan further explained that launch boarding management has been modernized with the introduction of a watchtower control room, and patrols by law enforcement agencies in the terminal area have been intensified. He stressed that any irregularities or negligence in passenger service would not be tolerated, as the government prioritizes ensuring safe, comfortable, and orderly travel by waterways.
Officials from the Ministry of Shipping, Bangladesh Inland Water Transport Authority (BIWTA), Bangladesh Inland Water Transport Corporation (BIWTC), Department of Shipping, and various law enforcement agencies were present during the visit.