Rivers have always been the lifeblood of civilizations, shaping societies by fostering development, culture, and progress. In Bangladesh, a country blessed with an extensive network of rivers, the role of these waterways in our history and modern civilization is both profound and undeniable. From nurturing early settlements to driving the economy and enriching cultural heritage, rivers have been at the heart of our nation’s existence. Yet, despite their immense significance, our river systems have been neglected, a reality starkly reflected in the declining state of our waterway communication infrastructure.
Historically, Bangladesh has invested heavily in road infrastructure, building roads, highways, and flyovers to support its ambitious development projects. While these investments have contributed to the country’s growth, they have also come at a significant cost to our waterways. Once the arteries of our nation, these rivers have been sidelined, their potential overlooked. This neglect is more than a missed opportunity; it is a critical oversight that threatens the very essence of our riverine country.
The National River Protection Commission reports that Bangladesh is home to 1,800 rivers, with the Padma being the longest. These rivers, spanning over 22,000 kilometers, represent a natural resource of immense value. Yet, despite this wealth, our investment in waterway communication remains woefully inadequate. While roads and highways are undoubtedly essential, the failure to develop our water transport system alongside them is a grave mistake.
The statistics paint a concerning picture. Bangladesh boasts 14 rivers longer than 200 kilometers, with 480 rivers spanning between 10 and 99 kilometers. Sunamganj district alone has 97 rivers, the highest in the country. Despite these figures, our rivers are becoming mere skeletons of their former selves, choked by unplanned construction, encroachment, and pollution. According to the World Bank, 3 million people in Bangladesh still rely directly on inland navigation, with waterways carrying 30 percent of passengers and 20 percent of goods. Yet, the sector remains deprived of the attention and investment it desperately needs.
Bangladesh’s vast network of rivers offers a unique advantage in terms of transportation. This network connects the remote corners of the country and provides a natural and cost-effective means of moving people and goods. Despite the undeniable potential, water transport has not received the attention it deserves. Many of our rivers are underutilized or have fallen into disrepair due to neglect and lack of investment. With the right policies and investment, however, water transport can become a cornerstone of Bangladesh’s infrastructure, providing a sustainable alternative to the overburdened road network.
Water transport in Bangladesh offers significant advantages over road transport, particularly in terms of cost-effectiveness, environmental sustainability, and safety. Transporting goods by water is up to 50% cheaper than by road, thanks to lower fuel costs, less wear and tear on vehicles, and the ability to move larger cargo volumes in a single trip—an essential factor for a country where economic efficiency is vital. Additionally, water transport is far more environmentally friendly, emitting fewer greenhouse gases per ton of cargo compared to road transport, and avoiding the environmental degradation caused by road construction. Shifting some of the transport burden from roads to waterways could also alleviate traffic congestion, especially in urban areas like Dhaka, while reducing the high maintenance costs associated with heavy vehicle usage. Moreover, water transport, when properly regulated, is generally safer, with fewer and less severe accidents than road transport. Investing in the water transport sector could spur economic growth and create job opportunities in shipbuilding, port operations, and logistics, particularly in remote and rural areas, thereby reducing regional disparities and promoting balanced development. Finally, revitalizing water transport would help preserve Bangladesh’s rich riverine heritage, turning it into a source of national pride and a key element of the tourism industry.
To unlock the full potential of water transport in Bangladesh, a comprehensive strategy is essential, encompassing infrastructure development, regulatory reforms, and public awareness initiatives. Key areas of focus should include modernizing ports and waterways by upgrading existing facilities and dredging silted rivers to ensure smooth navigation and efficient operations. Strengthening safety measures and regulations is also crucial, with an emphasis on establishing stricter standards and enhancing the capacity of the naval police and coast guard to ensure secure water transport. Additionally, promoting public-private partnerships can drive innovation and efficiency in the sector, helping to modernize the industry and expand its reach. Finally, integrating water transport with other modes of transportation, such as roads and railways, will create a more efficient and resilient transport network, enabling Bangladesh to fully leverage its vast network of rivers for sustainable economic growth.
Revitalizing our waterways is not just about preserving heritage; it is a necessity for the future development of Bangladesh. A well-maintained river system will boost tourism, facilitate trade, and provide a sustainable mode of transport for both people and goods. The time has come to shift our focus back to the rivers that have shaped our history and hold the key to our future. By investing in our waterways, we can ensure that the rivers of Bangladesh continue to play a vital role in our nation's progress, creating a more balanced, resilient, and prosperous transportation network for generations to come.
A S M Rafad Asgar is a Research Associate at Bangladesh Institute of Governance and Management.
