Shipping Minister Rabiul Alam on Tuesday visited the Sadarghat Launch Terminal in the capital to inspect passenger services ahead of Eid-ul-Azha.
State Minister for Shipping Rajib Ahsan accompanied him during the visit.
Speaking to reporters after the inspection, the minister said the government had taken all necessary measures to reduce passenger suffering on waterways and prevent accidents during the Eid journey.
“We are doing everything within the government’s capacity to ensure passenger services,” he said.
The minister said additional passenger pressure is created on waterways every year ahead of Eid, with many passengers attempting to board launches using boats or trawlers, increasing accident risks.
“To ensure safe boarding, separate stairways have been arranged for passengers,” he added.
He said monitoring cells, control rooms, CCTV cameras, trolleys and restrooms had been arranged for passengers, while the Shipping Ministry was monitoring the situation round the clock.
He added that the Bangladesh Inland Water Transport Authority (BIWTA), Coast Guard and other relevant agencies were working together to ensure a safe Eid journey.
“The situation is better than before. However, everyone must remember that life is more valuable than time,” the minister said.
He warned that launch departures could be delayed due to adverse weather conditions.
“If launches operate during bad weather, there is a risk of accidents. Passengers should remain patient,” he said.
The minister also said there was no scope for charging extra fares.
“A fare chart is displayed on every launch and fares are also shown on digital displays. Action will be taken if any irregularity is found,” he added.
