Regular operations began at the newly built Bosila launch terminal on Tuesday, with six launches scheduled to depart daily to various destinations until the day before Eid to facilitate passenger travel.
The initiative aims to ease congestion at the Sadarghat launch terminal during the Eid exodus.
State Minister for Shipping Md Rajib Ahsan inaugurated the launch ghat on Monday. Ministry of Shipping Secretary Dr Nurunnahar Chowdhury and other concerned officials attended the opening ceremony.
Shipping authorities said passenger pressure on waterways increases manifold every year around Eid and Sadarghat becomes overcrowded, causing hardship for travellers. Bosila's launch terminal has been opened as an alternative to relieve that pressure.
The Bangladesh Inland Water Transport Authority said passenger safety will be ensured by not allowing excess passengers on launches. It added that the number of launches may be increased as required.
The new launch terminal is expected to benefit passengers from Mohammadpur, Dhanmondi, Savar and Gabtoli areas and make Eid travel more comfortable.