State Minister for Shipping Md Razib Ahsan on Sunday warned that strict action would be taken against any negligence in monitoring water transport operations during the upcoming Eid-ul-Azha holidays and monsoon season.
Speaking at a programme marking National Maritime Safety Week 2026 at Ladies Club, the state minister urged authorities to ensure maximum vigilance in transporting passengers, sacrificial animals and cargo through waterways.
Razib Ahsan said all vessels must operate with valid documents and proper safety measures in place.
He stressed that officials would conduct regular inspections, and any irregularities or failures in supervision would face action.
He noted that waterways remain one of the safest, most affordable and comfortable modes of transport in Bangladesh and around the world.
Although accident rates on waterways are lower than in other transport sectors, he said greater awareness and responsibility are still needed among authorities, vessel owners and workers.
He also highlighted the growing challenges facing the country’s river routes, including shrinking rivers and the emergence of sandbars, saying modern and time-appropriate vessels must be introduced alongside stronger safety measures to keep waterways sustainable.
Razib Ahsan said major launch disasters, once common almost every year, have significantly declined due to coordinated efforts by the ministry, vessel owners and workers.
However, he emphasised that continued progress depends on regular monitoring and stricter oversight.
Referring to vessel route permits and survey inspections, the minister alleged that some operators temporarily improve vessel conditions during inspections but fail to maintain standards afterward.
He called on responsible officials to carry out routine checks beyond initial approvals.
With the monsoon season approaching, he warned that rough river conditions could increase risks for passenger vessels and instructed operators to maintain proper documentation and safety compliance at all times.
The state minister also expressed concern over the operation of risky trawlers and speedboats on smaller waterways during Eid travel.
He urged members of Bangladesh Coast Guard and Bangladesh River Police to strengthen surveillance to prevent accidents caused by overcrowded or unsafe vessels.
He said coordinated efforts among the ministry, departments, vessel owners, sailors and workers could help restore the country’s long-standing tradition of safe and efficient waterway transport.
Among others present at the event were Road, Rail and Water Transport Minister Sheakh Rabiul Alam, Shipping Secretary Zakaria, Chairman of Bangladesh Inland Water Transport Authority Rear Admiral Arif Ahmed Mostafa, Director General of Department of Shipping Commodore Md Shafiul Bari and Chief Engineer and Ship Surveyor Mirza Saifur Rahman.
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