Bangladesh Coast Guard Director General Rear Admiral Md Ziaul Haque on Saturday said extensive security measures have been taken to ensure safe travel for people returning home by waterways ahead of Eid-ul-Azha.
Speaking at a press briefing at Sadarghat Launch Terminal in the capital, he said the Coast Guard, Naval Police, BIWTA, Ansar and Fire Service jointly are working on key waterways across the country, including Sadarghat.
He also urged passengers to remain cautious and vigilant during their journeys.
Coast Guard chief said members have been working round the clock for the last two weeks to ensure safe Eid travel, while passengers have been prohibited from boarding or disembarking launches outside the designated points fixed by BIWTA.
He said Coast Guard patrol teams, stations and outposts are active across routes stretching from Sadarghat to the Bay of Bengal. Security monitoring has also been beefed up for the transportation of sacrificial animals, he added.
He further said regular communication is being maintained with launch owners and drivers to respond quickly to any adverse weather situation.
Also patrols have been strengthened on important waterways and at launch terminals in Dhaka, Barisal, Bhola, Mongla, Patuakhali, Cox's Bazar and Chittagong, he maintained.
Now people have been requested to contact the Coast Guard emergency helpline 16111 for any emergency assistance.
