Dhaka:State Minister for Shipping and Bridges Division Md Rajib Ahsan made a surprise visit to Sadarghat Terminal to assess preparations for ensuring safe and comfortable journeys for passengers during Durga Puja.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, during his afternoon visit, the minister reviewed passenger services, security arrangements, terminal facilities, the condition of launches, their passenger-carrying capacity, and the operations of the control room. He emphasized the importance of Durga Puja as a major festival and instructed launch owners, Bangladesh Inland Water Transport Authority (BIWTA) officials, and law enforcement personnel to implement necessary measures to safeguard passengers and prevent any incidents.
The minister reiterated the government's commitment to providing safe and quality services for all waterway passengers, including those from the Hindu community traveling from Dhaka to various parts of the country during the festival. He instructed the authorities to remain vigilant against overloading of launches and any form of passenger harassment at the terminal.
A significant number of passengers are gathering at Sadarghat to travel to southern districts for the Puja holidays. The Bangladesh Coast Guard, river police, and special BIWTA teams are on continuous duty to maintain security and prevent any untoward incidents.
Earlier, the state minister visited the Impact Jibon Tari floating hospital at Kanchan Poura Park Ghat in Rupganj, Narayanganj, inspecting medical facilities and speaking with patients about the quality of treatment and services. He praised the hospital's role in providing healthcare to underprivileged people in riverbank and remote areas, particularly highlighting its specialized treatment for eye, ear, nose, throat, and orthopaedic conditions.
In the afternoon, he also toured the PRAN-RFL factory in Narayanganj and examined a model of a waterbus being developed on a trial basis for the circular waterway. The BIWTA Chairman and other concerned officials accompanied him during the visits.