News Flash
DHAKA, May 21, 2026 (BSS)- State Minister for Shipping Md. Razib Ahsan today visited the Paturia-Daulatdia ferry ghat to inspect the preparedness for Eid
journeys on waterways.
During the visit, the State Minister observed the overall management of the ferry ghat, passenger services, security arrangements, and vehicle crossing
operations. He provided necessary directives to the concerned officials and employees.
Briefing journalists, he informed that the safety railings on the pontoon of the ferry ghat have been raised and strengthened to prevent untoward
accidents. Stop gates have been constructed at the ferry ghat. Separate access roads have been built for passenger boarding and disembarkation.
In the interest of passenger safety, he requested travelers to get off buses and board ferries during crossing. He also urged passengers traveling on
waterways not to board or disembark from launches using boats or trawlers under any circumstances.
The state minister said strict measures will be taken against overloading and charging excess fares, and the display of digital fare lists will be ensured
in visible places on each launch.
He further informed that from May 23 to June 2, 2026, the 5 days before and 5 days after Eid-ul-Azha , the movement of sand-carrying bulkheads will remain
completely suspended day and night. Additionally, speedboat operations will also remain suspended at night.
Rajib said that to reduce passenger pressure at Sadarghat, launch services will be operated from Bosila Ghat in Mohammadpur, Dhaka, and from Shimulia
Ghat adjacent to the Purbachal Kanchon Bridge. Besides, BRTC shuttle bus services will be launched from Kuril Bishwa Road to Shimulia Ghat.
From May 25 to May 31, 2026, the 3 days before and 3 days after Eid-ul-Azha, the ferry crossing of general trucks and covered vans (except those carrying
essential and perishable goods) will remain suspended. However, trucks carrying sacrificial animals will receive priority for ferry crossing.
He also said that no ghat lessor or their people will be allowed to harass vessels carrying sacrificial animals for docking at ghats. For this, the ghat
where animals will be unloaded from the respective vessel must be clearly mentioned on a banner.
The Ministry of Shipping has requested waterway passengers to contact BIWTA's hotline 16113, National Emergency Service 999, Government Information and
Service 333, Fire Service 102, Coast Guard 16111, River Police 01769-702215, and Operation Zero Missing at 0132000217 for any urgent needs.
During the visit, the Chairman of BIWTA, the Director General of the Department of Shipping, along with concerned officials from the ministry's
departments/agencies, were present.
