No Extra Fares on Waterways This Eid: Shipping Minister

Shipping Minister Sheikh Rabiul Alam has issued a stern warning against overcharging passengers on waterways during the upcoming Eid-ul-Fitr holidays.

While inspecting the Narayanganj BIWTA Terminal on Saturday morning, the Minister categorized the government's stance as "zero tolerance" regarding fare hikes and extortion. "Strict legal action will be taken against any transport operator charging more than the government-prescribed rates," he told reporters.

The Minister assured the public that this year’s journey home would be safer and more comfortable than previous years, noting that special administrative surveillance is already in place to prevent passenger harassment.

Beyond holiday travel, the Minister addressed local infrastructure and environmental concerns. He emphasized the need to protect the Shitalakshya River from pollution and pledged to expedite the Dhaka-Narayanganj double railway project.

During the visit, the Minister also directed officials to take immediate legal action against a lighter ship for failing to unload goods on schedule, signaling a crackdown on indiscipline in both cargo and passenger sectors.

"We will not allow anyone to hold the public hostage by ignoring government directives," he added. Senior BIWTA and district administration officials accompanied the Minister during the inspection.