Special Launch Services From Basila and Shimulia Begin Sunday to Ease Sadarghat Crowds

A special launch service from Basila and Shimulia ghats will begin on Sunday (May 24) to reduce passenger pressure at Sadarghat during Eid travel, State Minister for Shipping Md. Rajib Ahsan said.

He made the announcement while visiting Sadarghat Launch Terminal and Basila Launch Terminal on Saturday afternoon.

The State Minister said the government has taken several development and reform measures to ensure safe, orderly and affordable waterway travel in the Dhaka River Port area.

Ahead of Eid-ul-Azha, authorities have strengthened monitoring and passenger services to make river travel safer and more convenient.

During the visit, the minister inspected passenger services, security arrangements and terminal management activities at Sadarghat and instructed officials to maintain proper operations.

He said launch operators have been directed to charge fares according to government rates. Digital fare lists will also be displayed on every launch so passengers can easily check approved fares.

To reduce passenger suffering during Eid travel, free porter and trolley services will be available for five days before and after Eid. Cadets will also provide wheelchair support for elderly and sick passengers.

Passenger shelters, seating and rest facilities have been improved at the terminals. Additional workers have been deployed to maintain cleanliness, while monitoring has been increased to control unauthorized hawkers.

Security measures have also been strengthened. Naval Police and Coast Guard patrols have been increased to prevent risky boarding and disembarking through boats and trawlers.

Authorities have installed two low-step pontoons on both sides of the terminal to ensure safer boarding and disembarking for passengers.

The minister said launch management has been modernized through watch tower control rooms, and law enforcement patrols in the terminal area have been intensified.

“No irregularities or negligence in passenger services will be tolerated,” the State Minister said, adding that the government is giving top priority to safe, comfortable and orderly river transport during Eid travel.

Officials from the Ministry of Shipping, BIWTA, BIWTC, the Department of Shipping and law enforcement agencies were present during the inspection.