Paturia: State Minister for Shipping Md. Razib Ahsan today visited the Paturia-Daulatdia ferry ghat to inspect the preparedness for Eid journeys on waterways. During the visit, the State Minister observed the overall management of the ferry ghat, passenger services, security arrangements, and vehicle crossing operations. He provided necessary directives to the concerned officials and employees.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the safety railings on the pontoon of the ferry ghat have been raised and strengthened to prevent untoward accidents. Stop gates have been constructed at the ferry ghat, and separate access roads have been built for passenger boarding and disembarkation. In the interest of passenger safety, the state minister requested travelers to disembark from buses and board ferries during crossing. He also urged passengers traveling on waterways not to board or disembark from launches using boats or trawlers under any circumstances.
The state minister stated that strict measures will be taken against overloading and charging excess fares, and the display of digital fare lists will be ensured in visible places on each launch. He further informed that from May 23 to June 2, 2026, the movement of sand-carrying bulkheads will remain completely suspended day and night. Additionally, speedboat operations will be suspended at night.
Rajib Ahsan mentioned that to reduce passenger pressure at Sadarghat, launch services will be operated from Bosila Ghat in Mohammadpur, Dhaka, and from Shimulia Ghat adjacent to the Purbachal Kanchon Bridge. Besides, BRTC shuttle bus services will be launched from Kuril Bishwa Road to Shimulia Ghat. From May 25 to May 31, 2026, the ferry crossing of general trucks and covered vans, except those carrying essential and perishable goods, will remain suspended. However, trucks carrying sacrificial animals will receive priority for ferry crossing.
He also emphasized that no ghat lessor or their associates will be permitted to harass vessels carrying sacrificial animals for docking at ghats. The unloading ghat for animals must be clearly mentioned on a banner. The Ministry of Shipping has requested waterway passengers to contact BIWTA's hotline 16113, National Emergency Service 999, Government Information and Service 333, Fire Service 102, Coast Guard 16111, River Police 01769-702215, and Operation Zero Missing at 0132000217 for any urgent needs.
During the visit, the Chairman of BIWTA, the Director General of the Department of Shipping, along with concerned officials from the ministry's departments and agencies, were present.