Photo: Collected

BHOLA, May 25, 2026 (BSS) - The Coast Guard south zone has undertaken extensive security measures across the coastal waterways to ensure safe travel during the upcoming holy Eid-ul-Azha, slated for May 28.

Coast Guard official Captain Md. Arif Hossain came up with the development at a press briefing at the Ilisha launch terminal here on Sunday morning.

He said that with the expected surge of passenger and vehicle movement on the waterways during Eid, the Coast Guard has strengthened its security arrangements throughout the south zone.

Under the initiative, round-the-clock patrols have been intensified at key launch, ferry and terminal points including Ilisha, Kheya Ghat, Bheduria, Nazirpur, Chowmuhani, Majuchowdhury's Hat and Alexander in Lakshmipur, DC Ghat, Ulania and Old Hizla in Barishal, Alipur, Patuakhali, Kalapara and Baushia in Patuakhali, Tomruddin and Ram Newaz in Noakhali and Kakchira and Patharghata in Barguna district.

Captain Arif said Coast Guard diving teams remain on standby to respond to any emergency incidents. In addition, Coast Guard representatives are maintaining constant monitoring at BIWTA control rooms, while extra personnel have been deployed at important locations to prevent any untoward situation.

He added that intelligence surveillance has been increased, while suspicious persons and vessels are being searched. Passenger baggage scanning and other security measures are also being carried out.

To prevent theft, robbery, extortion, snatching, sabotage and cattle smuggling during the Eid, a significant number of patrol teams and high-speed boats have been deployed to ensure the safe and uninterrupted transportation of sacrificial animals and goods across the waterways.

The Coast Guard has also launched special patrols and public awareness campaigns to prevent accidents caused by overcrowding on vessels. Measures include microphone announcements, leaflet distribution, discouraging passenger transport beyond vessel capacity and ensuring passengers wear life jackets.

Authorities are also closely monitoring unauthorized passenger boarding and disembarkation using small boats or trawlers outside designated launch terminal areas in order to avoid accidents.

Captain Arif urged the public to seek assistance through the Coast Guard emergency hotline 16111 whenever necessary.

He noted that since its establishment, the Coast Guard has been working tirelessly to ensure the security of coastal and riverside regions through regular patrols, joint drives and anti-crime operations.

The Coast Guard official said the special Eid security measures will continue even after the festival to ensure passengers safe return to their workplaces.

The force also reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining overall law and order across the country and continuing such public safety initiatives in the future.