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With Eid travels approaching, the Ministry of Shipping has announced a strict 10-day ban on sand-laden freight vessels and small dinghy boats to prevent accidents on inland waterways.
Speedboats are prohibited at night, while daytime passengers must wear life jackets, bdnews24.com reports.
Ferries will also suspend carrying regular trucks and covered vans from Mar 17 to 24, except for essential and perishable goods, ensuring smooth passenger flow.
The directives, issued at a Secretariat meeting chaired by Shipping Minister Sheikh Rabiul Alam on Thursday, aim to guarantee safe, orderly, and hassle-free travel.
Speaking at a press briefing, Rabiul said: “Passenger pressure on waterways increases significantly during Eid. Under the circumstances, safety and travel comfort becomes a top government priority.”
He added, “No vessel would be allowed to charge extra fares or carry excess passengers or cargo. Passengers will not be allowed to travel on vessel rooftops.”
Approved fare charts must be displayed at all river ports, terminals, jetties, and vessels.
Proven violations will trigger route permit cancellations and strict legal action.
Mobile courts will operate at ferry and speedboat terminals, while unfit vessels will be barred.
Authorities will strictly enforce schedules, prevent mid-river boarding, and intensify night patrols to curb piracy and harassment.
Each launch will deploy at least four Ansar personnel, with vigilance teams at all terminals.
Rescue vessels and Fire Services will remain on high alert, and navigational channels, dredging, and terminal upgrades will be prioritised.
Passenger facilities, including water, sanitation, mobile charging, breastfeeding corners, and special provisions for women, children, and disabled travelers, will be strengthened.
Staggered holidays in Dhaka’s garment and knitwear sectors and feeder bus services will reduce travel congestion.
For urgent assistance, passengers can dial 999 or the BIWTA hotline at 16113.