State Minister for Shipping Md Razib Ahsan on Sunday said the government is working with the highest priority to ensure safe, comfortable and hassle-free travel for passengers on waterways during Eid-ul-Azha and to restore public confidence in river transport.
Speaking while visiting Chandpur River Port, he said authorities are maintaining round-the-clock monitoring at major ferry terminals and river ports across the country to facilitate the smooth return of holidaymakers to their workplaces after Eid.
“Close surveillance is being carried out at all major terminals to ensure passengers do not face any inconvenience. Existing problems at river terminals and waterways have been identified and steps have been taken to address them promptly,” he said.
Referring to the construction of the Chandpur Modern River Terminal, the state minister said part of the project has already been completed, but work was suspended after August 5 as the contractor stopped operations.
“A new contractor will be appointed to complete the remaining work quickly. Once finished, the terminal will help Chandpur River Port regain its lost heritage and significance,” he added.
Emphasising the need to rebuild public trust in water transport, Rajib said dredging activities would be intensified to keep waterways navigable and safe.
“The government is implementing planned initiatives to modernise the country’s river ports and make them more suitable for present-day demands,” he said.
He also said the government is committed to making waterways more efficient and passenger-friendly through pontoon modernisation, regular dredging and the development of river transport infrastructure.
“The government is determined to revive the tradition and popularity of water transport. Necessary initiatives are also being taken to introduce high-speed and modern vessels in line with the changing times,” he added.
During the visit, Chairman of the Bangladesh Inland Water Transport Authority Arif Ahmed Mostafa, Chairman of the Chandpur Zila Parishad Advocate Selim Ullah Selim, and officials from the ministry and its affiliated agencies were present.