Photo: BSS

DHAKA, March 16, 2026 (BSS) - Shipping, Road Transport and Bridges, and Railways Minister Shaikh Rabiul Alam today inaugurated three new vessels of Bangladesh Inland Water Transport Corporation (BIWTC) to make the upcoming Eid journeys more comfortable for passengers.

The vessels -- Rupsa, Sugandha and Madhumati -- were inaugurated at Sadarghat Launch Terminal in the capital.

Of the three vessels, Rupsa and Sugandha will operate on the Dhaka-Hatia route, while Madhumati will run on the Dhaka-Betua route.

The minister also inaugurated free wheelchair and trolley services for passengers at the terminal. He warned that strict legal action would be taken if any financial transaction is reported in the name of providing these services.

Addressing the programme, Shaikh Rabiul Alam said lease charges at the terminal have been waived for seven days to facilitate smooth Eid travel.

"We have exempted the lease charges for seven days on the occasion of Eid and the cost will be borne by us. If any complaint of harassment over carrying goods is received, necessary action will be taken," he said.

The minister said the free services, including wheelchairs and trolleys introduced from today, will continue in the future. "If anyone demands money for these services, action will be taken against them," he added.

He also assured that there is no possibility of any shortage of fuel oil in transport during the Eid season.

State Minister for Shipping Md. Rajib Ahsan, State Minister for Railways Habibur Rashid, Shipping Secretary Dr. Nurunnahar Chowdhury, NDC, and other concerned officials were present on the occasion.