News Flash
DHAKA, Oct 24, 2025 (BSS) - Shipping and Labour and Employment Adviser Brigadier General (Retd) Dr. M. Sakhawat Hussain today said the historic paddle steamer PS Masud is set to become a unique blend of heritage and river-centric tourism in the country.
"This 100-year-old steamer of the Bangladesh Inland Water Transport Corporation (BIWTC) will soon join the river-based tourism service on the Dhaka-Barishal route from next month," the adviser said.
He made the remarks while joining an experimental voyage of PS Masud on the Dhaka-Munshiganj route from Sadarghat, according to an official handout.
After extensive maintenance and renovation, the traditional vessel has returned with a fresh look, now equipped with modern facilities and enhanced safety features.
"The steamer is now fully prepared. Its mechanical and navigational performance will be tested through today's trial run," Dr. Sakhawat said, adding that regular operations will begin soon.
Describing PS Masud as more than just a river vessel, the adviser said it stands as a living symbol of Bangladesh's river culture and tradition. "We want the new generation to experience how river routes once served as the main channels of communication and culture," he added.
The government also plans to renovate several other vintage steamers like PS Masud to preserve the legacy of river transport and promote river-based tourism.
"Once, rivers were the lifeline of the Bangalee people. Through PS Masud, we hope people will rediscover their historic connection with the rivers," Dr. Sakhawat said. "Its return is a revival of that bond -- a reflection of our living history."
According to BIWTC, PS Masud will operate weekly, departing from Dhaka to Barishal every Friday and returning from Barishal to Dhaka every Saturday.
